426: How Ambre Hammond Makes ASTONISHING Progress Teaching Scales in Lesson 1!

What if your beginner students could master all 24 scales in just a few weeks? Today, I’m chatting with the incredible Ambre Hammond, whose high-energy, no-limits approach to piano teaching is turning heads and transforming students. We dive into how she introduces advanced technique from lesson one, keeps things joyful and motivating, and uses creative challenges to make even Hanon exercises exciting. If you’ve ever wondered how to spark faster progress and deeper engagement in your students, this conversation will give you plenty to think about.

• Ambre shared a brief overview of her background and her unique approach to teaching.
• How she introduces all 24 scales from lesson one, even with beginners.
• She emphasized that the way teachers frame difficulty affects student mindset.
• The value of using simplified classics and Bach early on was highlighted.
• How she makes scales and technique fun, using imagination and humor.
• She explained her use of games, timing challenges, and playful psychological tricks.
• The importance of strong parent involvement and a supportive studio culture was discussed.
• Ambre emphasized setting high expectations regardless of age or level.
• How she motivates students with goal-setting, performance, and creative rewards.
• Her early training, being homeschooled and taught by her mother.
• The role of inspiration, joy, and student-teacher connection was central to her philosophy.
• Tim and Ambre explored why challenging students unlocks their musical potential.

Guest Links Mentioned

• Ambre's website: www.ambrehammond.com
• Ambre's Instagram page: @ambrepianist and @ambreteacher
• Ambre's YouTube Channel: www.youtube.com/@ambrepianist
• Ambre's Facebook Page: Elite Piano School

Links Mentioned

• Find out more about TopMusicSheets here.
• Join the upcoming Spotlight Session with Nicola Cantan - find out more here.

Today's Guest

Classical pianist, Ambre Hammond, completed her Associate and Licentiate Diplomas in Piano as an eleven year old, while being home-schooled in Moss Vale, Australia. Her debut with orchestra at age 16 was playing the Concerto No. 3 by Rachmaninoff with the Orquesta Sinfonica de Cordoba in Argentina as part of her first prize in the International Music Competition of Cordoba. More recently, Ambre has added composing to her list of accomplishments. She has released two albums of compositions for solo piano. Ambre is in demand as a motivational speaker, with regular appearances at venues throughout Australia. She has also had speaking engagements in America, and most recently (2018) was the keynote speaker for Corning Gorilla Glass in Singapore.

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