adult piano lessons

How to Play Softer in Piano Playing

2026-06-29T06:58:57+01:00

Recently, many students have asked me the same question: “Why is it so difficult to play softly on an acoustic piano?” Interestingly, most of these students have spent years practising mainly on digital pianos. Their fingers are agile, their rhythm is stable, and they can produce clear sound quite easily. Yet when they sit at an acoustic piano — especially during lessons, examinations or performances — the sound suddenly becomes louder, harder and more tense than they expect. Soft Playing Is Not Weak Playing Playing softly is one of the most misunderstood skills in piano playing. Many people assume that softness [...]

How to Play Softer in Piano Playing2026-06-29T06:58:57+01:00

ABRSM vs Trinity College London: Which Music Exam Board Is Better?

2026-06-15T13:22:03+01:00

Deciding between exam boards is the first step to approaching a music diploma and taking your piano skills beyond playing “just for fun” – yet many students feel overwhelmed by the confusion surrounding which exam board to choose. While several other internationally accredited boards provide structured graded exams and diplomas, ABRSM and Trinity College London are the most globally recognised. Others like Rockschool, The Royal Conservatory of Music, Australian Music Examinations Board, etc. are also widely acknowledged, but may not offer the same level of international standardisation and global recognition. There is still ongoing debate among students over whether ABRSM or [...]

ABRSM vs Trinity College London: Which Music Exam Board Is Better?2026-06-15T13:22:03+01:00

Why Personalised Piano Lessons Matter More Than Ever

2026-05-15T11:37:47+01:00

These days, people want to make sure they receive the best possible education when learning something new — and piano is no exception. Traditional approaches often fail to meet the individual needs of adult students, while personalised piano lessons offer a more effective and enjoyable path. They are generally considered better for progress, skills development, and correcting bad habits. In today’s fast-paced world, tailored piano tuition matters more than ever because it respects time, goals, and individual learning styles. This article will explore the benefits and importance of personalised piano lessons. The Benefits of Personalised Piano Lessons Specifically Tailored to Your [...]

Why Personalised Piano Lessons Matter More Than Ever2026-05-15T11:37:47+01:00

The Best Exercises to Improve Your Jazz Piano Playing

2026-05-13T08:50:31+01:00

Jazz piano can take years to develop fluency on. A combination of perseverance and varied approach is essential to gain the skills you need to become an expressive improviser. Regular practice in different formats is also required, giving you healthy doses of individual improvement and experience in group situations. Here are the best ways to individually practice and improve your jazz piano skills. Scales Scales are an important part of learning any pitched instrument, both for the purposes of technique and key-based language. It is essential to know the scales related to any key you are playing in. A good [...]

The Best Exercises to Improve Your Jazz Piano Playing2026-05-13T08:50:31+01:00

Is It Ever Too Late to Learn the Piano? A Guide for Adult Beginners

2026-04-21T15:24:53+01:00

Many adults believe they’ve missed their chance to learn an instrument. But is age really a barrier to learning the piano, or just a myth we tell ourselves? Growing up, I was often told that I was too old to start a new skill. When I was in year 7, I started doing gymnastics. Even at that young age, I was told I had missed my ‘golden years’ of gymnastics because I started too late. The same thing happened in other aspects of my life, leading me to believe that age is a limiting factor to learning something new. Many [...]

Is It Ever Too Late to Learn the Piano? A Guide for Adult Beginners2026-04-21T15:24:53+01:00

From Hesitation to Distinction: Keith’s Inspiring Adult Piano Journey

2026-04-13T11:08:24+01:00

When Keith resumed piano lessons in 2022 after a long break, he never imagined he’d one day achieve a Grade 8 Distinction.In this heartfelt and insightful interview, Keith shares his journey from self-doubt to success—reflecting on the challenges, breakthroughs, and joyful moments that shaped his musical growth.What began with modest goals has become a true testament to the power of dedication, expert guidance, and a renewed love for the piano.Stefan: Keith, congratulations on your distinction! How did it feel when you received the news?Thank you very much! At first I felt relieved – the results took a few weeks to arrive, [...]

From Hesitation to Distinction: Keith’s Inspiring Adult Piano Journey2026-04-13T11:08:24+01:00

Student Interview: David Fallon’s Piano Journey

2025-01-31T10:20:19+00:00

David joined our piano family back in 2016, starting with in-person lessons at the London Piano Institute. Since then, his journey has evolved beautifully as he transitioned to online lessons with the Online Piano Institute, allowing him to continue developing his skills and passion for piano. In this interview, David shares his story—what drew him to the piano, his experiences learning in-person and online, and how playing has become such a meaningful part of his life. Mae: So, David, tell me a bit about what first brought you to the piano. Was it something you’d always wanted to do, or [...]

Student Interview: David Fallon’s Piano Journey2025-01-31T10:20:19+00:00

From Scratch To Stage: The Benefits and Challenges of Learning The Piano

2024-09-16T21:02:49+01:00

Starting your piano journey can be daunting, but we all have to start somewhere, right? Learning any instrument is hard. You know what is harder? Living with the fact of what could have been. Why live a life of regret where you have the daily opportunity to tame the unknown. Learning the piano will take time, but will be one of the best decisions you ll ever make. Here are some benefits as well as challenges you most probably will come across in your piano journey. The Unwanted Challenges of Learning the Piano Putting Limitations on Age Many people’s excuse as [...]

From Scratch To Stage: The Benefits and Challenges of Learning The Piano2024-09-16T21:02:49+01:00

Piano Teacher vs Being Self-Taught

2024-06-27T22:09:01+01:00

Do-it-yourself (DIY) has become such a common phrase these days that when it comes to certain areas where a lot of skill is required, such as playing the piano, it can put your overall skill and technique in jeopardy. Yes there are many resources to help one with learning to play the piano by yourself, but is it justifiable to neglect the importance of having a teacher? You’re torn between booking that lesson or just teaching yourself. Which one is better? Well, in this article we are going to analyse both sides from a neutral perspective and compromise. The Benefits [...]

Piano Teacher vs Being Self-Taught2024-06-27T22:09:01+01:00

Fourth Anniversary

2023-10-03T18:37:46+01:00

Fourth Anniversary Four years have passed since I started piano lessons - it is hard to believe that time flies so fast. My classes with Stefan Joubert at S & C Music have been excellent and life-changing really. He is a great teacher with the right blend of enthusiasm, standards and experience to help you grow as a player. The thing I love about S & C is that the lessons are designed for adult learners, and the teachers understand how adults learn and are sympathetic to the realities of learning as an older human. After four years, I now [...]

Fourth Anniversary2023-10-03T18:37:46+01:00
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