Piano courses are becoming increasingly popular, particularly those focusing on the adult piano ‘hobbyist’ market. It makes sense: this demographic probably have the most money to spend, and they also have more time to hone their piano chops, especially retired pianists. And they can be excellent players and attentive students. Like many teachers, I’ve taught on a whole plethora of these courses over the years, and it’s always an interesting and worthwhile experience, both working with advanced adult players, noting the difference between them and the young students with whom I generally work, and getting to know dedicated individuals whose interest in the piano often knows no bounds.
Pianissimi UK
Pianissimi was set up by Claire Vane and Alison Bestow: two pianists who met on a piano course, harbour a deep love for the instrument, and who had a dream of delivering friendly, immersive courses for pianists like themselves.
Pianissimi is held twice a year in the UK (May/June and October) at the Royal Hospital School and Framlingham College, both in Suffolk, and it offers three intensive days of one-to-one lessons and masterclasses, as well as several performance opportunities for every course member. Pianissimi’s UK-based courses engage four tutors who work with just 16 course members, all of whom must be Grade 7 level or above to qualify for a place.
‘The aim of the course is to meet other pianists, receive excellent tuition and be immersed in music and we invite you to indulge your passion for the piano in a relaxed and supportive environment. We offer one-to-one lessons, masterclasses and performances, along with the camaraderie that is a hallmark of our courses.’
I’m delighted to be joining the faculty of Pianissimi in 2027, and will be teaching on the first course of the year in June. For those interested, I will write more about it in due course.
Pianissimi India
In 2027, Claire and Alison are introducing a new strand to Pianissimi: an option to visit an exciting part of the world alongside the chance to relish superb interactive piano study. The first overseas course will take place in Candolim, Goa, from the 17th – 23rd March 2027, with tutors Karl Lutchmayer (who lives in Goa) and Yuki Negishi.
Similar to the UK-based courses, each participant will receive one-to-one lessons with each tutor as well as group classes and there will be several opportunities to perform in a concert setting too. Then there’s the added benefit of being able to soak up the breath-taking scenery, fantastic climate, as well as sampling plenty of delicious food alongside savouring the company of friendly, supportive piano colleagues. There is the option to travel at either end of the course while you’re out in Goa as well.
The trip’s overall cost (£1990) includes accommodation, all meals, lessons and classes, as well as transfers to and from the airport. Karl Lutchmayer has set up his home as an arts centre in Goa, which is where Pianissimi will be working and living. The lovely bedrooms are all en-suite, and participants are welcome to bring their partners (for an extra fee). The only additional costs will be flights and insurance.
There are eight places available for this piano experience, and you can find out much more information about it, about the tutors and Pianissimi’s founders, as well as how to apply, by clicking on the button links below.
