Creativity is built into the learning process, but sometimes it gets lost in the study and practice of music—the form and analysis and structure, the logging of practice hours and repetitions, the pursuit of that elusive *perfect* performance.

The same is true on the teaching side.

It’s easy to fall into that familiar, comfortable pattern of teaching the same way you’ve always taught but also to feel stuck—limited by the handful of ideas in your head and insecure about stepping outside your comfort zone.

You love teaching music, but sometimes it feels like you’re just going through the motions.

You want to feel creative and inspired again—to feel capable and confident in your abilities as a musician and teacher and have a step-by-step guide or plan to help you work through challenges when they arise and find a way forward.

That’s where I come in.

Hi, I’m Ashley Danyew.

I share creative and pedagogically sound teaching ideas and resources to help you rediscover the creative side of music teaching & learning.

I help music teachers and directors like you find clarity in their work, generate creative ideas, and build confidence—all while continually improving your teaching skills, keeping your students engaged, and managing your time effectively (because as all busy working musicians know, this is essential).

With a Ph.D. in Music Education from the Eastman School of Music and over 20 years of music teaching experience in church, community, studio, and college settings, I’ve helped musicians in all stages of their careers develop the skills and strategies they need to lead, teach, and be successful (especially when stepping into a new role, looking to innovate or build something new, or managing multiple part-time jobs and responsibilities).

Let’s do the same for you.

Ashley Danyew - musician, educator, researcher, piano teacher, entrepreneur

Here’s my approach:

Step 01

It starts with curiosity: fresh ideas, new music, new teaching approaches. Embrace opportunities to try new things, do things you’ve never done before, and just play.

Step 02

Put on your scientist hat and step into the research lab. This is where you study what works and what doesn’t, ask more questions, test hypotheses, and take notes.

Step 03

Keep an open mind and be willing to change your mind. Look for opportunities to learn from others, develop new skills, and put your knowledge into practice.

“Pedagogically sound and delivered with a generous clarity.”

“Ashley’s insights on music teaching and learning are pedagogically sound and delivered with a generous clarity that respects the value of traditional practices while investigating new approaches that can be incorporated into your teaching toolkit.”

- Dr. Jason Sifford, NCTM

Ashley Danyew review - "pedagogically sound"

“Made me a better teacher and a better musician.”

“I really appreciate the work that you do on your blogs and podcasts—I look forward to them every month. It seems you always address an issue I’m experiencing. The wealth of information you share has made me a better teacher and a better musician.”

- Sandra Gereau Fraser, organist and choir director

“Her heart for excellence in teaching is evident.”

“I greatly value Ashley’s approach, knowledge, and gifts as a teacher and as a mentor. Her heart for excellence in teaching is evident in what she provides.”

- Chrissy Talmadge, music teacher

Ashley Danyew testimonial - "her heart for excellence in teaching is evident"

Ashley Danyew - musician, piano teacher, researcher, educator, entrepreneur

Ashley Danyew is a musician, educator, writer, and researcher serving music educators, studio teachers, and church musicians.

With a Ph.D. in Music Education from the Eastman School of Music and over 20 years of music teaching experience in community, studio, church, and college settings, Ashley manages a private piano studio of K-12 students, hosts the podcast Field Notes on Music Teaching & Learning, and has taught over 2,600 music teachers and directors how to develop their skills and teach with creativity and confidence through her online courses and workshops.

She has presented at the National Conference on Keyboard Pedagogy and the College Music Society Mid-Atlantic Regional Conference and is a featured artist in the book, The Savvy Music Teacher. Her work has been published by Piano Magazine, Perspectives on Early Childhood Psychology and Education, Oxford University Press Choral Blog, NAfME, Colla Voce Music, Peake Music Publishing, and Growing in Grace.

Ashley is the Founder and Editor of Musician & Co., equipping classical musicians with the tools and education they need to be small business owners. She is dedicated to providing tools, resources, and services to support self-employed musicians and music freelancers so they can build and manage a music career that’s as diverse and unique as they are.

When she’s not teaching, researching music education strategies, or writing content for her blog or podcast, you can find her baking biscuits or biscotti, eating pasta, or painting postcard-size acrylic landscapes.

Ashley lives in Rochester, NY with her husband, Steve, and their lab-greyhound rescue, Rory.