It’s a trick question! In my experience, most students rarely practise at all. Even from here, I can hear your cries of furious denial! Of course I practise! And I’m making good progress! I play my instrument three times a day/every day/twice a week/occasionally… Yes, yes (said soothingly), of course you do! And that’s wonderful. …
Trinity have changed their submission procedure for their music grade exams. This doesn’t affect candidates (you!) except in one way: I now need to upload a photo of you holding your exam book, as well as recording your video. If you are recording your own video at home, please also get someone to take a …
Yes! If you’re a musician, you begin Christmas in the summer – or even earlier. When I directed the Norfolk Keyboard Orchestra, I arranged the Christmas music in July and August and we’d start rehearsing it in September. So remember that, next time you feel like moaning at the cards, decorations and Christmas jumpers the …
A few days ago it was my brother’s birthday. On the same day, at least two other people I know celebrated their birthdays. After all, every single day of the year it’s the birthday of countless people all over the world. We acknowledge the special date when it’s someone we know. We celebrate the whole …
I am teaching from Monday to Thursday inclusive this week, i.e. Monday 13th October, Tuesday 14th October, Wednesday 15th October and Thursday 16th October. There will be no lessons on Friday 17th, Saturday 18th, Monday 20th, Tuesday 21st, Wednesday 22nd or Thursday 23rd October. Friday and Saturday people should show up on Friday 24th and …
Do you remember that Performance is one of the three Ps? If you’ve forgotten the others, you can read the post about it all here. Performance is the ultimate goal of learning to play. You may be performing just to yourself, perhaps even with headphones on, or in a locked room with a cheetah prowling …
“He’s been playing the piano all summer. Of course, it’s not the sort of thing you’d give him to play.” So said the mother of a piano student. The student, aged fourteen, has been learning to play for the last six years. He’s always enjoyed his lessons, but it’s only this year that he’s discovered …
Horses are large, unpredictable animals, and riders are often thrown. Horsemanship wisdom says that if you don’t remount right away, fear and hesitation will make it harder next time. Obviously, falling off a horse is an event which might trigger fear and a reluctance to get back in the saddle. After all, it’s not a …
Welcome back! Humoresque has been on holiday since 30th July. Humoresque hopes you’ve all had a wonderful summer, and that you’re looking forward to this new term. Our Showcases are coming up next month, and after that we’ll be looking forward to Advent and Christmas. These are great musical celebrations, so look out for Humoresque’s …
At the start of each new academic year I change the password which gives access to the Pupils’ Pages. These Pages are where you’ll find scales charts, theory cards and other resources intended only for pupils of Rippling Keys Music. If and when you need to access the Pupils’ Pages, please contact me for the …