88 Creative Keys is an innovative program designed to integrate improvisation and creativity into traditional piano education. Co-founded by Bradley Sowash and Leila Viss, this initiative encourages pianists of all levels to go beyond the written page, combining the structure of classical training with the freedom of improvisation.
Through camps, workshops, and clinics, 88 Creative Keys empowers students and teachers to explore the full potential of music.
Project goals and mission
The mission of 88 Creative Keys is to inspire creativity at the keyboard by:
- Integrating improvisation into traditional piano lessons.
- Encouraging both students and teachers to explore music beyond written scores.
- Providing tools and techniques to balance classical training with creative freedom.
- Building a supportive community of educators and pianists.
By blending modern technology, time-tested teaching methods, and innovative practices, 88 Creative Keys equips pianists with the skills to develop their unique musical voices.
Founders and teachers
Bradley Sowash

A celebrated jazz pianist, educator, and author, Bradley Sowash specializes in teaching improvisation and creative musicianship. He has written the popular nine-book piano method, That’s Jazz, and serves as the Pop/Jazz Chairperson for the Music Teachers National Association. Bradley’s engaging teaching style encourages pianists to embrace creativity while building technical skill.
Leila Viss

A classically trained pianist and innovative educator, Leila Viss brings a tech-savvy approach to piano teaching. She is the author of The iPad Piano Studio and incorporates off-bench activities to inspire creativity. Leila’s dedication to integrating technology and improvisation into her lessons makes her a leader in modern piano education.
Together, Bradley and Leila bring decades of experience to 88 Creative Keys, combining their unique expertise to offer transformative learning experiences.
Programs and camps
Explore a range of offerings tailored to both students and teachers, designed to unlock creativity and enhance musicianship.
For students: Beyond the Page Clinic

Designed for intermediate pianists aged 12 and older, this clinic helps participants rediscover their natural creativity. Led by Bradley Sowash, the program provides hands-on techniques to explore improvisation and create music beyond written scores. Participants leave with practical tools to enhance their musical expression.
For teachers: Teaching Creativity Workshop

This workshop equips piano teachers with strategies to integrate improvisation into their lessons. Recognizing the importance of both music reading and improvisational skills, the program offers actionable methods to inspire creativity in students. Teachers learn how to balance tradition with innovation, broadening their students’ musical horizons.
The Eye Ear Revolution
The Eye Ear Revolution is a teaching concept that integrates two fundamental approaches to music education:
- Eye players: Those who excel at reading and interpreting written music (traditional classical training).
- Ear players: Those who improvise, play by ear, and create music without reliance on written scores.
To broaden their musical creativity and stylistic range, contemporary musicians need instruction in both areas. The Eye Ear Revolution is a consortium of like-minded educators established by Bradley Sowash and Leila Viss to help students, musicians, and fellow teachers achieve this balance.
By blending traditional skills with creative music-making, this concept underpins the philosophy of 88 Creative Keys, promoting a holistic and engaging approach to music education.
Testimonials
Hear from those who have experienced the transformative impact of 88 Creative Keys firsthand.
Stay inspired (and tuned)
88 Creative Keys continues to inspire pianists and educators to embrace the creative side of music. Stay tuned for announcements about future camps and workshops, which will be shared on Pianist’s Compass.
To stay updated, subscribe to our newsletter or reach out directly to Bradley Sowash or Leila Viss for more information.
Visit Pianist’s Compass to explore more about this project and discover resources that can transform your musical journey. Together, we can reimagine what’s possible at the piano.