The Scrappy Notes Blog

Real talk, studio systems, and teaching wisdom for independent music teachers.

Welcome to Scrappy Notes, my corner of the internet where I share stories from my studio, teaching strategies, burnout prevention tips, and behind-the-scenes thoughts from The Scrappy Piano Teacher Podcast. If you love honest advice, sustainable systems, and teacher-to-teacher encouragement, you are in the right place.

Jaclyn Mrozek 12/29/25 Jaclyn Mrozek 12/29/25

How to Be Seen and Found as a Music Teacher

A practical look at how music teachers can be seen and found online without burnout, constant posting, or doing all the marketing things. Based on Episode 60 of The Scrappy Piano Teacher Podcast.

Jaclyn Mrozek 11/30/25 Jaclyn Mrozek 11/30/25

December Piano Teaching Resources Roundup

Looking for fresh December piano lesson ideas that will work for any studio This roundup shares easy ear training, rhythm activities, Christmas lead sheets, holiday games, and fun group lesson resources for the busiest month of the year. You will find links to Christmas by Ear, Nutcracker Rhythm Cup Explorations, Busy Little Turtle games, lead sheet collections, composer studies, and more. Perfect for group lessons, buddy lessons, and last minute December planning.

Jaclyn Mrozek 9/15/25 Jaclyn Mrozek 9/15/25

Piano Teacher Philosophy: Why Every Studio Needs One

A clear teaching philosophy helps you stay grounded, communicate your values, and build a studio culture families trust. This post walks you through why it matters, how to write one, and how to use it inside your piano studio.

Jaclyn Mrozek 7/28/25 Jaclyn Mrozek 7/28/25

Studio Policy - Don’t Be The Grumpy Grocery Store

Studio policies are more than rules. They set the tone for calm lessons, clear expectations, and smoother communication with families. This post connects the Grumpy Grocery Store Scrappy Snippet with the Policies episode to help you rethink how policies support your teaching year.

Jaclyn Mrozek 5/19/25 Jaclyn Mrozek 5/19/25

Can We Really Control Piano Practice? Here’s What We Can Influence

Piano practice is complicated, especially in a world full of screens and instant gratification. This post explores what we as teachers actually control, how to teach the skill of practice inside the lesson, and simple strategies that help students make real progress. Includes a free practice workshop you can use in your studio.