In praise of the local music shop
All over the country, and probably the world, there are sad stories of independent bookshops closing down. I suppose the same must be happening with music shops
Quick-fix Checklist for Sight Singing
This is a check list for sight-singing in ABRSM Singing Grades 1 to 5, and for general aural tests in Grades 6 to 8 (tests 6b, 7b and 8b).
Nerves
I was depping on the organ the other day in a normal parish church near here. It was communion, and the choir was trying to sing And Didst Thou Travel Light by Richard Shephard under my direction from the piano.
How singers practise
The short answer would be "With some difficulty". If you are an instrumentalist, ask yourself, how would I practise if I didn't have my instrument with me? That puts you, more or less, in the position of a singer.
Choosing a Voice Teacher
How does one choose a voice teacher? How do you know if it's someone who will develop your voice appropriately, but not harm it? It is hard to know what to look for or what to ask a prospective teacher.
Common Problems in Piano Sight-Reading
Many people struggle with sight-reading at the piano. But not all for the same reason or reasons. Here are some common problems, together with my solutions to them.
Memory Lane
Some pianists, (many well-known concert artists, in fact) find playing from memory easy, and some find it very difficult. The pointers in this article, from Pianist magazine, may help.
Adult Piano Tutors Review
Which is the best Piano Tutor for Adults? This article began in my mind when a new adult student turned up, and already had a tutor book.
The most important thing to do when you practice
What is the secret of successful practise? Don't play the wrong notes! Does that sound simplistic? Bear with me.
Keyboard or Piano?
I offer Piano lessons - not Portable Keyboard lessons. If you are considering whether an instrument at home is suitable, here is a short guide.
Music exam boards go head-to-head
Which exam board should aspiring musicians follow? Which has the best syllabus? and which has the best structure?
Piano Scales for exams
There are too many scales in ABRSM piano exams: far more than for other instruments - and I have sat across the table from the chief examiner and told her so. Why are there just scales and arpeggios and not technical exercises, as for other instruments?
