Piano Pedagogy at the University of Kansas
“Learning without thought is labor lost;
thought without learning is perilous.”
― Confucius, The Sayings of Confucius
Piano pedagogy is the art and science of teaching piano. Becoming an excellent pianist is a key part of becoming a good piano teacher--but there is much more. KU piano pedagogy programs provide the curriculum and mentorship that will help you build the teaching career you deserve.
In KU’s piano pedagogy programs you will:
- Continue your pianistic growth by studying with a member of the KU Artist-Faculty
- Participate in highly focused seminars delving into the latest scientific research on effective teaching, motivation, practice and innovative uses of technology
- Apply these concepts in hands-on teaching
The best way to improve your teaching is by learning and putting that knowledge into practice. The diverse and interesting courses of the KU Piano Pedagogy program gave me the necessary tools for success.
Yi Chang
DMA, 2023
If piano teaching is in your future, the KU Piano Performance and Pedagogy program is for you.
Choose the degree program that best suits your needs
Graduate Certificate in Piano Pedagogy
Requires 12 credits of study adaptable to student needs. Coursework is available in-person or fully online in a mixture of synchronous and asynchronous classes. Students may attend full or part-time.
Master of Music in Piano Performance and Pedagogy
Requires 32 credits of study and is often completed in two years. Courses include intense study in advanced pedagogy and pedagogy practicum; a uniquely designed pedagogy project; private lessons; academic music subjects, and a recital. Some courses are offered online.
DMA in Piano Performance
A Pedagogy Cognate is designed for KU doctoral students who plan careers in teaching. These students complete a special project in piano pedagogy in addition to their regular coursework.
DMA in Piano Performance and Pedagogy
Requires 60 credits of study and is usually completed in three years. Courses include intense study in advanced pedagogy and pedagogy practicum; private lessons; piano seminar in pedagogy and performance; teaching music in higher education, academic music subjects, and four recitals, two of which are pedagogy-focused. Some courses are offered online.