Clara Schumann (1819-1896) was a phenomenal pianist and composer ahead of her time. She was also the wife of Robert Schumann and the mother of 8 children. She was one of the most sought after pianists and was constantly touring after her husband died. She also held teaching positions at the Leipzig and Hoch Conservatories. Clara was a demanding teacher and spent a great deal of time on technique (as her father-Friedich Weick, had taught her). She began every lesson with scales.
I begin each lesson with scales. Even as a first year student, my students play 5 finger major scales. I feel so strongly about students knowing and understanding the composition of scales that I incorporated them into the PCS Piano Proficiency Examinations.