In this second episode of a three-part Piano Lounge conversation, I sit down with Dr. Sara Langmead to explore the real, behind-the-scenes life of a modern pianist, teacher, and mother. Sara reflects on the many seasons of her musical life, from raising children to rediscovering performance as her kids grew up, reminding us that you can do everything, just not all at the same time.
We talk about how she balances practice, performance, and teaching with family life, and how her priorities and artistry have evolved through each chapter. Sara also shares her groundbreaking work on gender-equitable music literature, including the development of a piano syllabus that highlights the voices of women composers throughout history.
If you’re an adult piano student or lifelong learner seeking a genuine glimpse into how real pianists integrate music into daily life, with honesty, heart, and purpose — this episode will both inspire and encourage you.
In this episode of Learn Piano: A Personal Practice, we explore the fascinating skill of playing by ear—the bridge between what you hear and what you play. Some pianists seem born with it, effortlessly recreating songs without sheet music, while others develop it over time through listening, experimenting, and recognizing musical patterns. Start with a familiar tune “Ode to Joy,” and learn how to match melodies to chords, and hear how ear training, intervals, and lead sheets help connect your inner hearing to your hands. Whether you’re naturally intuitive or still learning to trust your ear, this episode reminds you that music begins inside you, long before it ever touches the page.
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You will receive updates on podcasts and book club info too.
For upcoming classes, you can find details here: Adult Piano Community | Cynthia Ali Studios
Copyright © 2025 Cynthia Ali Studios LLC. All rights reserved.
The music in this podcast is either public domain,original, or used under Fair Use for educational purposes. Any third-party content is used for commentary, criticism, or education and does not infringe upon original creators' rights. (contact@cynthiaalistudios.com)
The views expressed are those of the host(s) and guests and do not necessarily reflect those of Cynthia Ali Studios LLC.
Summary: In this episode of Learn Piano: A Personal Practice, we explore the fascinating skill of playing by ear—the bridge between what you hear and what you play. Some pianists seem born with it, effortlessly recreating songs without sheet music, while others develop it over time through listening, experimenting, and recognizing musical patterns. Start with a familiar tune “Ode to Joy,” and learn how to match melodies to chords, and hear how ear training, intervals, and lead sheets help connect your inner hearing to your hands. Whether you’re naturally intuitive or still learning to trust your ear, this episode reminds you that music begins inside you, long before it ever touches the page.
Subscribe here: https://www.cynthiaalistudios.com/podcast
You will receive updates on podcasts and book club info too.
For upcoming classes, you can find details here: Adult Piano Community | Cynthia Ali Studios
Copyright © 2025 Cynthia Ali Studios LLC. All rights reserved.
The music in this podcast is either public domain,original, or used under Fair Use for educational purposes. Any third-party content is used for commentary, criticism, or education and does not infringe upon original creators' rights. (contact@cynthiaalistudios.com)
The views expressed are those of the host(s) and guests and do not necessarily reflect those of Cynthia Ali Studios LLC.
In this episode of Learn Piano: A Personal Practice, we explore the art of sight-reading—one of the most valuable (and often overlooked) skills in piano playing. You’ll learn how to approach a new piece with confidence by scanning the key signature, time signature, and rhythm patterns before you play. We’ll talk about reading ahead, keeping your eyes moving across the page, and finding flow even when mistakes happen. Whether you’re just starting out or rebuilding your sight-reading habit, this episode will help you see the music differently and enjoy the process of discovery in every note.
A look back at a couple previous episodes to build on today's---
🎹 S1: E18 Do You Overlook the Directions at the Beginning of Your Piece?
🎹 S1: E19 Do You Know What a Time Signature Is?
Register for the Christmas Music Level One here: www.cynthiaalistudios.com/pianocommunity
Purchase Chords Made Simple here: https://cynthiaalistudios.kit.com/products/chord-shortcut
Copyright © 2025 Cynthia Ali Studios LLC. All rights reserved.
The music in this podcast is either public domain,original, or used under Fair Use for educational purposes. Any third-party content is used for commentary, criticism, or education and does not infringe upon original creators' rights. (contact@cynthiaalistudios.com)
In this hands-on episode of Learn Piano: A Personal Practice, we explore rhythm as more than clapping and countng—it’s a skill you capture. You’ll be guided through live rhythm dictation exercises: first writing what you hear, then echoing rhythms by ear, followed by a rhythm story featuring finger cymbals (zills) to help you recognize rhythm beyond the piano. By the end, you’ll be inspired to start your own Rhythm Notebook—a musical commonplace book where you collect rhythms the way others collect poems or leaves.
A look back at rhythm from a previous episode--- 🎹S3:E4 Why is Rhythm Essential to Every Piano Player’s Practice?
Grab your free Coffee-Inspired Rhythm Guide and practice rhythm using words like Latte-Coffee-Espresso! Get here: https://cynthiaalistudios.ck.page/0c455bda4a
Register for the Christmas Music Level One here: www.cynthiaalistudios.com/pianocommunity
Copyright © 2025 Cynthia Ali Studios LLC. All rights reserved.
The music in this podcast is either public domain,original, or used under Fair Use for educational purposes. Any third-party content is used for commentary, criticism, or education and does not infringe upon original creators' rights. (contact@cynthiaalistudios.com)
The views expressed are those of the host(s) and guests and do not necessarily reflect those of Cynthia Ali Studios LLC.
In this episode of Learn Piano: A Personal Practice, Cynthia talks about the art of musical recognition — the skill of instantly identifying intervals, chords, meters, forms, and styles. Through engaging stories and practical tips, she shows how recognition transforms piano study from decoding notes into truly speaking the language of music. You’ll hear how childhood songs made intervals memorable, how college assignments sharpened meter awareness, and how listening to countless pieces revealed the character of nocturnes, waltzes, and Debussy’s shimmering preludes. Recognition isn’t just theory, it’s what allows pianists to read faster, memorize more easily, and play with authentic expression.
Subscribe here: https://www.cynthiaalistudios.com/podcast
You will receive updates on podcasts and book club info too.
For upcoming classes, you can find details here: Adult Piano Community | Cynthia Ali Studios
Copyright © 2025 Cynthia Ali Studios LLC. All rights reserved.
The music in this podcast is either public domain,original, or used under Fair Use for educational purposes. Any third-party content is used for commentary, criticism, or education and does not infringe upon original creators' rights. (contact@cynthiaalistudios.com)
The views expressed are those of the host(s) and guests and do not necessarily reflect those of Cynthia Ali Studios LLC.
In this episode of Learn Piano: A Personal Practice,Cynthia explores one of the most powerful musicianship tools every pianist can develop: audiation-the ability to hear music in your mind even when no sound is present. From everyday earworms to Beethoven’s legendary compositions written in silence, you’ll discover how this innerhearing sharpens memory, fluency, and expression at the piano. With practical exercises and inspiring stories, you’ll learn how to “turn up” your inner piano, practice away from the keyboard, and bring more sensitivity and imagination to your playing.
Subscribe here: https://www.cynthiaalistudios.com/podcast
You will receive updates on podcasts and book club info too.
For upcoming classes, you can find details here: Adult Piano Community | Cynthia Ali Studios
Copyright © 2025 Cynthia Ali Studios LLC. All rights reserved.
The music in this podcast is either public domain, original, or used under Fair Use for educational purposes. Any third-party content is used for commentary, criticism, or education and does not infringe upon original creators' rights.(contact@cynthiaalistudios.com)
The views expressed are those of the host(s) and guests and do not necessarily reflect those of Cynthia Ali Studios LLC.
In this first episode of a three-part Piano Loungeconversation, I sit down with Dr. Sara Langmead to explore the real, behind-the-scenes life of a modern pianist, teacher, and mother. We dive into how she balances practicing, performing, and teaching while raising a family, and what keeps her inspired at the piano through all of life’sseasons. She shares her aspirations as a musician, the challenges she’s navigated, and the ways she continues to grow artistically. If you’re an adult piano student who wants a deeper glimpse into how real pianists integrate music into daily life, with honesty, heart, and passion, this episodewill draw you in.
Subscribe here: https://www.cynthiaalistudios.com/podcast
You will receive updates on podcasts and book club info too.
For upcoming classes, you can find details here: Adult Piano Community | Cynthia Ali Studios
Copyright © 2025 Cynthia Ali Studios LLC. All rights reserved.
The music in this podcast is either public domain, original, or used under Fair Use for educational purposes. Any third-party content is used for commentary, criticism, or education and does not infringe upon original creators' rights.(contact@cynthiaalistudios.com)
The views expressed are those of the host(s) and guests and do not necessarily reflect those of Cynthia Ali Studios LLC.
In this episode of Learn Piano: A Personal Practice, the focus is on one of the most powerful ways to grow as a pianist: listening to the masters. The discussion explains how focused listening shapes style, tone, rhythm, and memory, with practical tips such as studying complete works, comparing multiple recordings, and using loop listening to internalize music. By developing a deeper listening habit, pianists can enrich their playing and build a more authentic musical voice.
Subscribe here: https://www.cynthiaalistudios.com/podcast
You will receive updates onpodcasts and book club info too.
For upcoming classes, you can finddetails here: AdultPiano Community | Cynthia Ali Studios
Copyright © 2025 Cynthia AliStudios LLC. All rights reserved.
The music in this podcast iseither public domain,original, or used under Fair Use foreducational purposes. Any third-party content is used for commentary,criticism, or education and does not infringe upon original creators' rights.(contact@cynthiaalistudios.com)
The views expressed are those ofthe host(s) and guests and do not necessarily reflect those of Cynthia AliStudios LLC.
Welcome back to Learn Piano: A Personal Practice! In this first episode of Season 4, “Back in the Studio: Core Musicianship & Piano Fluency Skills,” Cynthia invites you to pause, breathe, and slow down as we return to the heart of piano learning. After a summer spent exploring music beyond the bench, from historic instruments to concerts, recitals, and bonus episodes that offered fresh inspiration, we are refreshed and ready for a new season of focused growth. This fall we will build core musicianship and piano fluency skills by developing sharper listening, stronger sight-reading, and a deeper understanding of intervals, chords, rhythm, and creative expression. We will also explore improvising, transcribing music you love, and even transposing pieces to fit new moods or voices. On the first Friday of each month Cynthia hosts “Conversations in the Piano Lounge,” beginning with special guest Dr. Sara Langmead in October, to talk about living with music in everyday life. Throughout the season you will gain tools to make playing feel more natural whether you are reading a new score, playing by ear, or creating your own music, and you will pick up practical practice tips to keep your momentum and joy alive at the keyboard.
Subscribe here: https://www.cynthiaalistudios.com/podcast
You will receive updates on podcasts and book club info too.
For upcoming classes, you can find details here: Adult Piano Community | Cynthia Ali Studios
Copyright © 2025 Cynthia Ali Studios LLC. All rights reserved.
The music in this podcast is either public domain,original, or used under Fair Use for educational purposes. Any third-party content is used for commentary, criticism, or education and does not infringe upon original creators' rights. (contact@cynthiaalistudios.com)
The views expressed are those of the host(s) and guests and do not necessarily reflect those of Cynthia Ali Studios LLC.
In this episode, you will hear about the Adult Piano Program that is beginning this Fall. You can check out all the offerings at: www.cynthiaalistudios.com/pianocommunity.
Subscribe here: https://www.cynthiaalistudios.com/podcast
You will receive updates on podcasts and book club info too.
For upcoming classes, you can find details here: Adult Piano Community | Cynthia Ali Studios
Copyright © 2025 Cynthia Ali Studios LLC. All rights reserved.
The music in this podcast is either public domain,original, or used under Fair Use for educational purposes. Any third-party content is used for commentary, criticism, or education and does not infringe upon original creators' rights. (contact@cynthiaalistudios.com)
The views expressed are those of the host(s) and guests and do not necessarily reflect those of Cynthia Ali Studios LLC.
This special 3-part mini-series offers a peek into the everyday rhythms of my piano studio. Join me as I sort through stacks of sheet music, share where each score came from, and reflect on the stories and memories they carry. Each episode is a day-in-the-life glimpse at the music that shapes my teaching and my studio.
Subscribe here: https://www.cynthiaalistudios.com/podcast
You will receive updates on podcasts and book club info too.
For upcoming classes, you can find details here: Adult Piano Community | Cynthia Ali Studios
Copyright © 2025 Cynthia Ali Studios LLC. All rights reserved.
The music in this podcast is either public domain,original, or used under Fair Use for educational purposes. Any third-party content is used for commentary, criticism, or education and does not infringe upon original creators' rights. (contact@cynthiaalistudios.com)
The views expressed are those of the host(s) and guests and do not necessarily reflect those of Cynthia Ali Studios LLC.
In this episode, you will get some ideas on how to prepare your studio for Fall.
Subscribe here: https://www.cynthiaalistudios.com/podcast
You will receive updates on podcasts and book club info too.
For upcoming classes, you can find details here: Adult Piano Community | Cynthia Ali Studios
Copyright © 2025 Cynthia Ali Studios LLC. All rights reserved.
The music in this podcast is either public domain,original, or used under Fair Use for educational purposes. Any third-party content is used for commentary, criticism, or education and does not infringe upon original creators' rights. (contact@cynthiaalistudios.com)
The views expressed are those of the host(s) and guests and do not necessarily reflect those of Cynthia Ali Studios LLC.
This special 3-part mini-series offers a peek into the everyday rhythms of my piano studio. Join me as I sort through stacks of sheet music, share where each score came from, and reflect on the stories and memories they carry. Each episode is a day-in-the-life glimpse at the music that shapes my teaching and my studio.
Subscribe here: https://www.cynthiaalistudios.com/podcast
You will receive updates on podcasts and book club info too.
For upcoming classes, you can find details here: Adult Piano Community | Cynthia Ali Studios
Copyright © 2025 Cynthia Ali Studios LLC. All rights reserved.
The music in this podcast is either public domain,original, or used under Fair Use for educational purposes. Any third-party content is used for commentary, criticism, or education and does not infringe upon original creators' rights. (contact@cynthiaalistudios.com)
The views expressed are those of the host(s) and guests and do not necessarily reflect those of Cynthia Ali Studios LLC.
This special 3-part mini-series offers a peek into the everyday rhythms of my piano studio. Join me as I sort through stacks of sheet music, share where each score came from, and reflect on the stories and memories they carry. Each episode is a day-in-the-life glimpse at the music that shapes my teaching and my studio.
Subscribe here: https://www.cynthiaalistudios.com/podcast
You will receive updates on podcasts and book club info too.
For upcoming classes, you can find details here: Adult Piano Community | Cynthia Ali Studios
Copyright © 2025 Cynthia Ali Studios LLC. All rights reserved.
The music in this podcast is either public domain,original, or used under Fair Use for educational purposes. Any third-party content is used for commentary, criticism, or education and does not infringe upon original creators' rights. (contact@cynthiaalistudios.com)
The views expressed are those of the host(s) and guests and do not necessarily reflect those of Cynthia Ali Studios LLC.
In this episode, discover insights from Madeline Bruser’s The Art of Practicing and a glimpse into our next book club pick, Lang Lang’s Journey of a Thousand Miles.
Subscribe here: https://www.cynthiaalistudios.com/podcast
You will receive updates on podcasts and book club info too.
Copyright © 2025 Cynthia Ali Studios LLC. All rights reserved.
The music in this podcast is either public domain,original, or used under Fair Use for educational purposes. Any third-party content is used for commentary, criticism, or education and does not infringe upon original creators' rights. (contact@cynthiaalistudios.com)
The views expressed are those of the host(s) and guests and do not necessarily reflect those of Cynthia Ali Studios LLC.
🎶 Summer Reflections at Cynthia Ali Studios
This summer, our Summer Series carried us beyond the piano bench to find music in everyday life. We explored The Little Chronicle of Anna Magdalena Bach, played historic instruments at the Schubert Club, experienced a piano concerto, shared heartfelt student conversations, peeked into “a day in the life” as a pianist, and unboxed fresh new music.
Our Book Club read The Art of Practicing, and we gathered for a Debussy listening evening, with Ravel up next. In lessons, Level One students grew their note reading with Vivaldi’s Spring and Autumn, alongside favorites like Twist and Shout, Do-Re-Mi, and Chim Chim Cher-ee.
On a personal note, I joined the 7 in 7 songwriting challenge, writing and recording seven songs in seven days. Raw and real, they capture the creative spark of bringing lyrics, chords, and piano together.
As we turn toward autumn, our Fall Series: Core Musicianship & Piano Fluency Skills begins September 22nd. We’ll go deeper into listening, sight reading, improvisation, and more, with special conversations in the Piano Lounge.
✨ I invite you to reflect: What music filled your summer, and what did you discover?
Subscribe here: https://www.cynthiaalistudios.com/podcast
Copyright © 2025 Cynthia Ali Studios LLC. All rights reserved.
The music in this podcast is either public domain,original, or used under Fair Use for educational purposes. Any third-party content is used for commentary, criticism, or education and does not infringe upon original creators' rights. (contact@cynthiaalistudios.com)
The views expressed are those of the host(s) and guests and do not necessarily reflect those of Cynthia Ali Studios LLC.
In this episode, I’m sharing a little moment of joy, an unboxing of the sheet music I picked up during my recent visit to the music store (as mentioned in the last episode). There’s something magical about opening fresh scores—like holding possibility in your hands. You’ll get a first peek at some beautiful new editions, including a shimmering Ravel piece that feels like sunlight on water, and a charming Mozart piece full of elegance and wit. I think you’ll enjoy this little glimpse of new music to learn.
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Copyright © 2025 Cynthia Ali Studios LLC. All rights reserved.
The music in this podcast is either public domain,original, or used under Fair Use for educational purposes. Any third-party content is used for commentary, criticism, or education and does not infringe upon original creators' rights. (contact@cynthiaalistudios.com)
The views expressed are those of the host(s) and guests and do not necessarily reflect those of Cynthia Ali Studios LLC.
In this podcast episode, come along with me as I visit mylocal music store for a special Connecting Traditions recital and presentation. You’ll hear reflections from the event and join me as I browse through shelves of sheet music, searching for new treasures to bring home to my piano studio. It’s a mix of inspiration, exploration, and a little behind-the-scenes glimpse into how I choose the music that shapes our lessons.
Copyright © 2025 Cynthia Ali Studios LLC. All rightsreserved.
The music in this podcast is either public domain,original,or used under Fair Use for educational purposes. Any third-party content is used for commentary, criticism, or education and does not infringe upon original creators' rights. (contact@cynthiaalistudios.com)
The views expressed are those of the host(s) and guests anddo not necessarily reflect those of Cynthia Ali Studios LLC.
This is the second part of the conversation. I’m joined by longtime student and pianist Jim Freschi for an inspiring conversation about his journey as an adult student and pianist. Jim shares his musical background, how he approaches his practice routine, the setup that keeps him motivated, and the pieces he finds most meaningful. As someone who returned to the piano later in life, his story offers warmth, insight, and encouragement for any adult learner navigating their own musical path.
_______________________
🎉 Don’t Miss Out on Upcoming Events!🎶
Piano Studio Book Club: Join here If you'd like to be added to the email list for Book Club events. email Cynthia at contact@cynthiaalistudios.com
June 15th - August 17th
Copyright © 2025 Cynthia Ali Studios LLC. All rights reserved.
The music in this podcast is either public domain,original, or used under Fair Use for educational purposes. Any third-party content is used for commentary, criticism, or education and does not infringe upon original creators' rights. (contact@cynthiaalistudios.com)
The views expressed are those of the host(s) and guests and do not necessarily reflect those of Cynthia Ali Studios LLC.
In this special episode, I’m joined by longtime student and pianist Jim Freschi for an inspiring conversation about his journey as an adult student and pianist. Jim shares his musical background, how he approaches his practice routine, the setup that keeps him motivated, and the pieces he finds most meaningful. As someone who returned to the piano later in life, his story offers warmth, insight, and encouragement for any adult learner navigating their own musical path.
_______________________
🎉 Don’t Miss Out on Upcoming Events!🎶
Piano Studio Book Club: Join here If you'd like to be added to the email list for Book Club events. email Cynthia at contact@cynthiaalistudios.com
June 15th - August 17th
Copyright © 2025 Cynthia Ali Studios LLC. All rights reserved.
The music in this podcast is either public domain,original, or used under Fair Use for educational purposes. Any third-party content is used for commentary, criticism, or education and does not infringe upon original creators' rights. (contact@cynthiaalistudios.com)
The views expressed are those of the host(s) and guests and do not necessarily reflect those of Cynthia Ali Studios LLC.