‘Free to be Creative at the Piano’ author Edward Weiss Challenges Tiger Mom Approach

When author Amy Chua came out with her book 'The Battle Hymn of the Tiger Mother' many agreed that discipline and tough parenting can be a fast track for producing a child who would be a success.

But Edward Weiss, author of 'Free to be Creative at the Piano' doesn't think this method can create a happy adult. Weiss, who also teaches something called 'New Age' piano insists that enjoyment of the process is more important.

Here's what this pianist/composer and author has to say about it:

"Children love structure in piano lessons and I have nothing against this. What I talk about is the kind of adult this strict approach produces - certainly not one that can create on their own. In fact, most who grew up with a stern teacher hovering over them now won't go near a piano. And I think that's slightly tragic. Especially when you consider all the joy music can provide."

The book Weiss has written went straight to number one on Amazon.com in it's first week in print and has received some controversy as well. Weiss remarks:

"The book I wrote is a collection of essays on what I consider to be important when playing piano. I emphasize a creative approach that allows students to quickly play piano using chords. Many adults have a fear of 'getting it wrong' when playing a musical instrument. I bypass all of this by focusing on the joy of process rather than a goal oriented product approach - the kind where students are rewarded for getting something right."

The book 'Free to be Creative at the Piano' can be found at http://www.amazon.com/dp/1451595247

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