Sir András Schiff visited the Royal College of Music in London last month and conducted a series of master classes. These will no doubt be of interest to many readers. These classes were filmed on April 10th 2016 and they feature several students. One of these students is Martin James Bartlett, BBC Young Musician 2014…
Category: Melanie Spanswick
The Power of Visualisation
Visualisation can be a revelation when memorising music, but it’s useful for so much more than merely memory. For those acquainted with mental imagery and positive imaginative thought processes, visualisation will be a frequent occurrence. By visualising events, in effect, ‘watching’ them happen in your mind (akin to running a video), you are thereby encouraging…
So You Want To Play The Piano?
I’ve made a short video linked below, describing my book So You Want To Play The Piano? and why it might be a useful addition to any prospective piano students library. It may also interest parents. It may also be beneficial for those who already play or are self-taught, and could even be a helpful…
A master class with Sir Andras Schiff
I really enjoy attending master classes and if I can’t go, the next best thing is to watch on YouTube. With so many fascinating classes given by celebrated pianists and teachers posted online, one could spend weeks just viewing them all. The following workshop given by Hungarian concert pianist Sir András Schiff, was recorded last…
The Harpsichord: Katharine May
This post has been written by harpsichordist, pianist, teacher, and writer Katharine May. Katharine teaches the instrument and gives regular concerts, both as a soloist and chamber musician. I am delighted to be writing for Melanie`s blog, and sharing with you my love and enthusiasm for the harpsichord, which I`ve been playing for most of…
Micro-Lectures by Boris Giltburg
I’m pleased to feature the first of several ‘micro-lectures’ recorded by Israeli pianist Boris Giltburg. According to Giltburg, the videos will focus on musical or technical questions relating to various pieces. Each lasting just a few minutes, they have been recorded by Louisiana Music at the Louisiana Museum of Modern Art. I chatted to Giltburg…
Practising without the Piano
My most recent article for the Piano Professional Magazine is a publication for piano teachers. It’s published three times a year by EPTA or the European Piano Teachers Association. The article focuses on working away from the instrument. It also emphasises using the mind to aid learning in various ways. You can read the original…
Musica Nova Stars of the Albion Competition 2016
The Musica Nova Russian-British Music Academy has been a thriving music education establishment for many years. Situated in London, it was founded by Russian pianist, singer, teacher, composer and educator Evgenia Terentieva, who is also the CEO. Evgenia’s academy offers a broad spectrum of music tuition from instrumental lessons to one day intensive courses, plus…
Peregrine’s Pianos presents a visit to the Schimmel Factory
Peregrine’s Pianos is organising a visit to the Schimmel Factory which will take place on Thursday 21st April 2016. Situated in Grays Inn Road, Central London, Peregrine’s Pianos is the exclusive dealer in London for Schimmel Pianos and also for August Förster instruments. The first visit to the Schimmel Piano Factory in Germany was arranged…
Piano Waves: 5 Piano Pieces
Piano Waves consists of 5 pieces intended for intermediate level, which is around Grade 4-6 of ABRSM, Trinity College, or London College of Music examination board levels. With a hint of minimalism, Piano Waves lie comfortably under the hands for pupils. Inspired by my adventures at sea, when I spent many years giving piano recitals…
10 Reasons to Employ a Musician
Arts subjects don’t always receive the recognition they deserve. We are constantly hearing about cuts within the arts and, in some cases, they are completely ignored altogether. But it’s not all doom and gloom. Studying music at a university or music college can be a smart move. Over the past few months, I’ve read some…
Memories of Moscow: Alicja Fiderkiewicz
I’m pleased to introduce Polish concert pianist Alicja Fiderkiewicz on my blog. Alicja enjoys a busy career. She studied at the renowned Central School of Music in Moscow, which is attached to the Moscow Conservatoire. Here, she recalls her time at the Central School and provides a fascinating glimpse into the professional training of young…