Podcasts – Susan Staples Bell Music

Studio Insights for Creative Piano Teachers

Practical teaching ideas, music previews, and creative strategies from my piano bench to yours.

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on YouTube

New Arrivals, Favorites &
Best-Selling Sheet Music

Browse the complete Susan Staples Bell Music collection — from the latest releases to teacher-trusted favorites and top-selling studio essentials. Discover inspiring piano music and teaching resources chosen by educators and loved by students, all in one place.

New Arrivals 🎵

Fresh releases designed to inspire students, build confidence, and keep lessons engaging.

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New

Holiday & Worship

Holiday piano books that build skill, inspire expression, and capture the warmth and spirit of the season.

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Best Sellers

Best-selling piano books that inspire confidence, creativity, and a love of music in young pianists.

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Music That Inspires Practice

In these short, practical videos, I share what’s actually working in my own studio — from lesson ideas and improvisation strategies to behind-the-scenes looks at new music.

If you’ve ever wished your students understood their music more deeply… practiced more willingly… or felt proud of what they were playing — you’re in the right place.

Take the Next Step

If something in a video sparks an idea for your studio, you don’t have to reinvent it.

Explore the sheet music, ensembles, and creative method books designed to support the very strategies I’m sharing.

The Sound of Amethyst 🎹✨

I’m just curious… 💜🎹

If Amethyst were a sound…
what would it sound like musically?

For me, it felt mysterious…
calm…
dreamy…
and a little magical.

I tried to capture that feeling through the harmonies, color, and ...flowing movement in the music.

But what do YOU hear?

#piano #pianoshorts #amethyst #pianomusic #musicinspiration #pianoteacher #shorts #sheetmusic #blues #bluespiano

Hi! My name is Susan Staples Bell. I'm a composer/arranger and I've been a Piano Teacher for over 30 years. Welcome to my channel!

Here you will find sheet music and resources for Church Musicians, Piano Teachers & their students, and Adult Recreational Learners- all available for instant Download.

Please Subscribe and Click the Bell to make sure you see New Releases!
I take commissions! Contact me: ssmbell.music@gmail.com

Follow me on Facebook:
https://www.facebook.com/SusanBellPianoStudio.Compositions

Lots more to discover: https://www.sheetmusicplus.com/publishers/susan-staples-mast-bell-sheet-music/3014463?aff_id=563375Show More

The Sound of Amethyst 🎹✨

I’m just curious… 💜🎹 If Amethyst were a sound… what would it sound ...

One of My Favorite Ways to Teach Articulation...

Download the Piano Sheet Music: ...

This Tiny Explorer Becomes a Big Piano Adventure! Meet Compsognathus

Download the Piano Sheet Music: ...

Download the Piano Sheet Music: https://susanstaplesbellmusic.com/shop/

What adventures await a tiny explorer?

Meet Compsognathus: Tiny Explorer, an energetic piano solo inspired by one of the smallest dinosaurs ever discovered.

Quick, curious, and always ...on the move, this little dinosaur turns every practice session into an adventure. Students love imagining Compsognathus darting through ancient forests, exploring new places, and discovering surprises around every corner.

But while they're having fun, they're also building important piano skills.

🎹 Forearm rotation
🎹 Cross-hand movements
🎹 Keyboard geography
🎹 Reading higher notes on the staff
🎹 Musical navigation with D.C. al Coda

The result is a piece that feels playful and exciting while reinforcing essential techniques young pianists need.

🦕 About The Dinosaur Files

The Dinosaur Files combines music, creativity, and discovery for young explorers.

Each dinosaur includes:

✅ Original piano solo
✅ Explorer Training activities
✅ Dinosaur Discovery facts page
✅ Creative music challenges
✅ Real dinosaur facts and history

Students don't just learn piano pieces—they embark on musical expeditions.

📖 Compsognathus: Tiny Explorer
Level: Elementary – Late Elementary

Discover more piano music and creative teaching resources:
🎼 susanstaplesbellmusic.com

#pianoteaching #pianoteacher #pianolessons #elementarypiano #pianostudents #sheetmusic #musiceducation #piano #music #compsognathus #pianosolo #creativepianoteaching #musicteachers #dinosaur

Hi! My name is Susan Staples Bell. I'm a composer/arranger and I've been a Piano Teacher for over 30 years. Welcome to my channel!

Here you will find sheet music and resources for Church Musicians, Piano Teachers & their students, and Adult Recreational Learners- all available for instant Download.

Please Subscribe and Click the Bell to make sure you see New Releases!
I take commissions! Contact me: ssmbell.music@gmail.com

Follow me on Facebook:
https://www.facebook.com/SusanBellPianoStudio.Compositions

Lots more to discover: https://www.sheetmusicplus.com/publishers/susan-staples-mast-bell-sheet-music/3014463?aff_id=563375Show More

Tis So Sweet to Trust in Jesus | Cello & Piano Duet arrangement

Download the sheet music: ...

Welcome to Max & Cora: Puppy Pals! a Musical Storybook

Come along on a Musical Adventure with Max & Cora: ...

If DIAMOND was music - what would it sound like?

I’m just curious… ✨ Some music feels soft and dreamy. Diamond didn’t ...

The Dinosaur Files: Ankylosaurus | Piano Play Along

Download the Piano Sheet Music and Play Along: ...

Download the Piano Sheet Music and Play Along:
https://susanstaplesbellmusic.com/product/ankylosaurus-tail-of-thunder-solo/

Step into the prehistoric world of Ankylosaurus, one of the most heavily armored dinosaurs to ever roam the Earth!

This elementary piano solo from ...The Dinosaur Files features powerful accents, dramatic sound effects, and exciting musical moments inspired by the famous dinosaur's massive tail club. In this play-along video, students can perform with the included backing track to create an even bigger, more cinematic musical experience.

Perfect for:
• Elementary piano students
• Recitals and studio performances
• Students who love dinosaurs and adventure
• Building confidence with accents, dynamics, and dramatic playing

About the Piece
Ankylosaurus was a plant-eating dinosaur known for its armor-plated body and powerful tail club. In this piece, students create the sound of thunderous tail swings, heavy footsteps, and prehistoric action while developing important musical skills.

What Students Learn
• Accents and articulation
• Dynamic contrasts
• Open-hand clusters
• Musical storytelling
• Performance confidence

- Part of The Dinosaur Files — a collection that combines music, creativity, and dinosaur discovery for young explorers.

Learn more:
susanstaplesbellmusic.com

#pianolessons #pianoteacher #playalong #dinosaur #ankylosaurus #dinosaurmusic #piano #SheetMusic #CreativePianoTeaching #SusanStaplesBell

Hi! My name is Susan Staples Bell. I'm a composer/arranger and I've been a Piano Teacher for over 30 years. Welcome to my channel!

Here you will find sheet music and resources for Church Musicians, Piano Teachers & their students, and Adult Recreational Learners- all available for instant Download.

Please Subscribe and Click the Bell to make sure you see New Releases!
I take commissions! Contact me: ssmbell.music@gmail.com

Follow me on Facebook:
https://www.facebook.com/SusanBellPianoStudio.Compositions

Lots more to discover: https://www.sheetmusicplus.com/publishers/susan-staples-mast-bell-sheet-music/3014463?aff_id=563375Show More

Space Jive at TMTA | Live Performance

Download this Piano Sheet Music here: ...

Download this Piano Sheet Music here: https://susanstaplesbellmusic.com/product/space-jive-a-multi-level-piano-ensemble-for-elementary-late-elementary-early-intermediate-duet-and-early-intermediate-solo-studio-license/

What happens when you put elementary, intermediate, and advanced students together at one piano?

✨ Magic.

This performance of Space Jive was presented by the wonderful ...students of the Garland MTA Student Group, and it perfectly captures why I love writing multi-level ensemble music.

Instead of separating students by ability, Space Jive lets pianists of different levels perform together. Every part is meaningful, every player contributes, and the result is an exciting, energetic performance that sounds much bigger than the sum of its parts.

The smiles on their faces say it all.

Whether you're looking for a recital finale, a group class project, or simply a way to build community in your studio, this piece creates an experience students remember long after the performance is over.

~ Teachers: Imagine your own students counting down to rehearsal because they can't wait to play together.

Thanks to the Garland MTA students and teachers for bringing this music to life. It was a joy to watch your creativity and enthusiasm shine!

If you'd like to explore more creative ensemble music, improvisation resources, and recital pieces that students genuinely love to practice, you're in the right place.

#pianoteacher #PianoEnsemble #resources
#GroupPiano #pianorecital #musiceducation #pianostudio #space #SusanStaplesBell #creativepianoteaching #pianostudents #piano #music

Hi! My name is Susan Staples Bell. I'm a composer/arranger and I've been a Piano Teacher for over 30 years. Welcome to my channel!

Here you will find sheet music and resources for Church Musicians, Piano Teachers & their students, and Adult Recreational Learners- all available for instant Download.

Please Subscribe and Click the Bell to make sure you see New Releases!
I take commissions! Contact me: ssmbell.music@gmail.com

Follow me on Facebook:
https://www.facebook.com/SusanBellPianoStudio.Compositions

Lots more to discover: https://www.sheetmusicplus.com/publishers/susan-staples-mast-bell-sheet-music/3014463?aff_id=563375
Watch a lively Space Jive performance featuring young musicians on stage. See how these students handle a group piano piece.Show More

Ankylosaurus Piano Solo | The Dinosaur Files: 9 Pieces of Discovery Collection

Download this Piano Sheet Music: ...

Download this Piano Sheet Music: https://susanstaplesbellmusic.com/shop/

Can a piano sound like a dinosaur?
Meet Ankylosaurus: Tail of Thunder, an exciting elementary–late elementary piano solo inspired by one of the most heavily armored ...dinosaurs ever discovered.

Students love this piece because they don't just play notes—they become the dinosaur.

Powerful accents become tail whips.
Open-hand clusters become thunderous tail smashes.
A dramatic pause before the ending builds suspense before the final attack!

Beyond the fun, students are also developing:
🎹 Accented articulation
🎹 Dynamic contrast
🎹 Two-note slurs
🎹 Strong rhythmic playing
🎹 Musical storytelling through sound

🦖 About The Dinosaur Files

The Dinosaur Files combines music, creativity, and discovery for young pianists.

Each dinosaur includes:
✅ Original piano solo
✅ Explorer Training activities
✅ Dinosaur Discovery facts page
✅ Creative music challenges
✅ Scientific information about the dinosaur

Students don't just learn a piece—they become musical explorers.

📖 Ankylosaurus: Tail of Thunder
Level: Elementary – Late Elementary

Explore more music and creativity resources:
🎼 susanstaplesbellmusic.com

#pianoteaching #pianoteacher #pianolessons #elementarypiano #sheetmusic #pianosolo #pianomusic #piano #music #dinosaur #dinosaurmusic #ankylosaurus

Hi! My name is Susan Staples Bell. I'm a composer/arranger and I've been a Piano Teacher for over 30 years. Welcome to my channel!

Here you will find sheet music and resources for Church Musicians, Piano Teachers & their students, and Adult Recreational Learners- all available for instant Download.

Please Subscribe and Click the Bell to make sure you see New Releases!
I take commissions! Contact me: ssmbell.music@gmail.com

Follow me on Facebook:
https://www.facebook.com/SusanBellPianoStudio.Compositions

Lots more to discover: https://www.sheetmusicplus.com/publishers/susan-staples-mast-bell-sheet-music/3014463?aff_id=563375Show More

What Does Ruby Sound Like Musically?

I’m just curious… What does Ruby sound like in music? 🔥 Some gemstones ...

The Simplest Way to Introduce Improvisation to Piano Students

If you'd like to teach Improvisation but don't know where to start, ...

If you'd like to teach Improvisation but don't know where to start, here are some resources that can help: https://susanstaplesbellmusic.com/shop/

This lesson comes from the book, Exploring Improvisation: https://susanstaplesbellmusic.com/product/exploring-improvisation-30-prompts-to-unleash-your-inner-cool-studio-license/

In this lesson, ...Sophie learns a simple chord pattern:
F Major – Fsus4 – F Major – Fsus2 – F Major
Then we add the F Major scale and begin experimenting with melody ideas.

First, Sophie plays the chords while I improvise.
Next, we switch roles and Sophie creates her own musical ideas while I provide the accompaniment.

One of the biggest misconceptions about improvisation is that students need lots of theory before they can begin. In reality, a simple chord pattern and a familiar scale can provide everything they need to start listening, exploring, and creating music.

This is a fun activity for private lessons, group piano classes, summer camps, or students who are curious about improvising but don't know where to begin.

I'd love to hear your thoughts:
🎹 Do you teach improvisation?
🎹 What are your favorite ways to get students started?

Learn more about creative piano teaching resources:
susanstaplesbellmusic.com

#pianoteacher #pianolessons #pianoteaching #pianoteachingtips #improvisation #improvisationpiano #musiceducation #pianopedagogy #creativepianoteaching

Hi! My name is Susan Staples Bell. I'm a composer/arranger and I've been a Piano Teacher for over 30 years. Welcome to my channel!

Here you will find sheet music and resources for Church Musicians, Piano Teachers & their students, and Adult Recreational Learners- all available for instant Download.

Please Subscribe and Click the Bell to make sure you see New Releases!
I take commissions! Contact me: ssmbell.music@gmail.com

Follow me on Facebook:
https://www.facebook.com/SusanBellPianoStudio.Compositions

Lots more to discover: https://www.sheetmusicplus.com/publishers/susan-staples-mast-bell-sheet-music/3014463?aff_id=563375Show More

Shimmering. Dreamy. Changing. What Does Opal Sound Like?

I’m just curious… If Opal were a piece of music, what would it sound ...

Studio Insights for Creative Piano Teachers

Visit my channel
on YouTube

New Arrivals, Favorites &
Best-Selling Sheet Music

New Arrivals 🎵

Holiday & Worship

Best Sellers

Music That Inspires Practice

Take the Next Step

The Sound of Amethyst 🎹✨

Collections

Quick links

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Studio Insights for Creative Piano Teachers

Visit my channel on YouTube

New Arrivals, Favorites & Best-Selling Sheet Music

New Arrivals 🎵

Holiday & Worship

Best Sellers

Music That Inspires Practice

Take the Next Step

The Sound of Amethyst 🎹✨

Collections

Quick links

Your Cart Is Empty

Visit my channel
on YouTube

New Arrivals, Favorites &
Best-Selling Sheet Music