In this third episode of a three-part Piano Lounge conversation, I will continue the conversation 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.

Check out the adult classes at: www.cynthiaalistudios.com/pianocommunity

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.

opyright © 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 finale brings the entire season together. We revisit each episode from September to December and show how every skill builds toward a single arc of musical fluency. From listening, to audiation, to recognition, to reading, to playing by ear, improvising, transcribing, transposing, and arranging, this season created a complete musicianship map for adult learners. You will hear how each step connects and how these skills form a circular flow that leads to confidence, creativity, and true musical independence.

Next Friday features part three of my conversation with Dr. Sara Langmead, followed by a two-week holiday break to rest and recharge. In January, we will revisit four favorite episodes from early seasons. In February, Season Four begins with a focus on musical artistry. Subscribers will be the first to hear about the new piano offerings inside Cynthia Ali Studios in 2026.

This finale is both a reflection and a turning point. It highlights what you built this year and introduces where we are going next. If you have been following along since September, you have built a deeper foundation than technique. You have built musicianship.

Subscribe here: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.cynthiaalistudios.com/podcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

You will receive updates on podcasts and book club info too.

For upcoming classes for 2026, you can find details here: https://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 week’s episode, we’re diving into the art of arranging music. Explaining how to take a piece you love and shape it into something that fits your hands, your skill level, and your personal musical voice. I’ll share the story of how I first discovered arranging back in sixth grade, explore how orchestra works are transformed into piano pieces, and show you simple, beginner-friendly tools you can start using right away. And to bring it all together, I’ll create a live arrangement of a familiar Christmas tune in real time, thinking aloud as I choose harmonies, textures, and colors. If you’ve ever wished a piece felt easier, richer, or more “you,” this episode is your invitation to start shaping music with confidence and creativity.

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.