Announcing Autumn 2026 Piano Inspires Kids:
Music of Japan
We’re thrilled to announce the Autumn 2026 issue of Piano Inspires Kids—Music of Japan. You’ll discover composers and pianists from Japan, traditional and modern music of Japan, new music based on a Japanese folk tune, and ideas on organizing practice.
Students can engage with Piano Inspires Kids with these opportunities:
- Reader Poll: When do you like to practice?
- Cover Art Contest for Winter 2027
- Composition Contest for Summer 2027
- Student Spotlight, Piano Inspires Creativity, Piano Inspires Artistry, and more!
Read the magazine and download online activities to immerse students in the culture and music of Japan. Additional activities include writing Japanese words and phrases, a daily activity checklist, and interval games. Downloadable lesson plans are available for lessons and group classes.
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Discovery Blog
Announcing: 2027 Outer Space Music Composition Contest
Create a piano solo with a galactic theme! There is so much to explore in outer space—stars, planets, rockets, aliens, or even the vastness beyond. Winners will be featured in the Summer 2027 issue of Piano Inspires Kids.
Continue Reading Announcing: 2027 Outer Space Music Composition Contest
Announcing: 2027 Winter Cover Design Contest
The Winter 2027 issue will explore sonatinas and sonatas, and we are inviting our Piano Inspires Kids readers to design the cover! One of the most famous sonatas is “Moonlight Sonata” by Ludwig van Beethoven. Show us how this sonata inspires you with your pictures and graphic designs!
Continue Reading Announcing: 2027 Winter Cover Design Contest
Teaching with Piano Inspires Kids: Five Ways It Comes to Life at the New School for Music Study
Piano Inspires Kids (PIK) guides how we coordinate instruction across group classes. Each themed issue informs our planning, with short readings that spark activities and longer-term projects that deepen learning over time. In this way, technique, theory, repertoire, and creative work remain connected and meaningful.
