I’ve written on many occasions about the positive practical and psychological benefits from regular performance practice. Nothing can prepare a pianist for the feeling of stepping out in public, having to think under pressure and play a piece from beginning to end with few errors, stumbles or hesitations. Feeling terrified is totally normal, but the elation of sweeping aside those pesky nerves and doing it well is stupendous – and addictive! Once experienced, never forgotten. The chance to play in public will seriously improve piano playing too, bestowing a confidence in all who participate.

With this in mind, it’s great to be able to highlight a new performance opportunity created by Pianist Magazine and Schott Music. They are presenting a showcase for pianists of all standards and abilities to be held from 6.00 to 9.30pm on January 23rd 2015 at Schott Music’s store in London. Performers will get to play on a beautifully maintained Steinway Model M baby grand housed in Schott Music’s Recital Hall. The event is also free for all players and attendees.

Pianist Magazine’s Editor Erica Worth says ‘For my part, I will be proud to see some of my loyal readers play. Remember, this is not a competition. You can play the simplest 12-bar prelude, or the hardest 10-page etude. Don’t be shy. I’ll be there to spur you on. And we can all have a catch-up over a glass of wine afterwards!‘

To participate, you can play to any level, though you must be over the age of 18. You will need to select a piece from a wide-ranging repertoire list, which, again, covers all levels. You don’t have to memorise your piece; playing from the score is fine. Space is limited, Schott Music expects to be able to accommodate anywhere from 20 to 30 people on the night, so reserving a place now is a good plan; the link for the easy-to-use website is listed below. You can bring along a friend, family member, anyone you like. You can attend purely as an audience member too, though numbers are limited.

Schott Music has devised an eclectic and interesting repertoire list, which is completely diverse. Erica comments, ‘You can study the repertoire list for yourself at the showcase website, but make your choice soon and get your name on the list soon. Remember, this event is on a first-come, first-served basis, and the end of January is not so far away – that means you’ll want to get practising soon!’ 

So what are you waiting for? Whether preparing for an exam, concert or just wanting to gain valuable performance practice and meet new friends, come along to this exciting event!

Publications

Melanie Spanswick has written and published a wide range of courses, anthologies, examination syllabuses, and text books, including Play it again: PIANO (published by Schott Music). This best-selling graded, progressive piano course contains a large selection of repertoire featuring a huge array of styles and genres, with copious practice tips and suggestions for every piece.

For more information, please visit the publications page, here.