POPULAR POSTS
A selection of the most widely read posts on this site.
Celebrating the Left Hand
Many students have ongoing problems regarding their left hand. These difficulties may include inability to read the bass clef properly, weaker fingers, or just lack of co-ordination and movement. A languid left hand can be caused by so many culprits, so in this post I thought it a good idea to examine the reasons why…
Why Is Grade 5 Theory Important?
In this post I examine the importance of the Associated Board of the Royal Schools of Music’s Grade 5 theory exam. The Grade 5 theory exam is significant to pupils because once a Grade 5 instrumental practical exam has been achieved it’s not possible to take a further graded instrumental exam until you have passed…
The healing powers of music: repairing brain damage
Music is often used for healing purposes; from relaxation to recovering from cancer. According to science, music can have a powerful effect on repairing brain damage. Patients with left-sided brain damage who can no longer speak can find they are able to sing words, often without any difficulty or training. Melodic intonation therapy, or singing…
Structured piano practice in 5 simple steps
This is a well-worn and popular topic! It’s too easy to sit down at the piano and play without much thought or adherence to any real practising schedule. There is nothing wrong with this and we all do it at some point. However, it’s a good idea to incorporate some kind of structure into your practice regime….
Piano exam success: 9 key points
I examined for the ABRSM (The Associated Board of the Royal Schools of Music) for 5 years both in the UK and abroad, and I’ve compiled the following list of important points to remember when preparing for your music exam. 1. Preparation is the key to success. You have a very short time to make…
10 reasons to play the piano
There are so many reasons why both adults and children benefit from the study of a musical instrument. Here are my top ten, to encourage you to learn to play the piano: 1. Music brings us all so much happiness, it really is very central to our lives. It’s important to be given the chance…