Welcome to Episode 45 of Piano, Finally
This week, David reflects on what it really means to “play” the piano—not just as a technical activity but as a source of joy, creativity, and fun.
🚗 Road Trip & Piano Concert
The episode begins with a musical journey—literally—to Armidale for the Piano Plus Showcase Concert, part of the Autumn Piano School. The highlight? Watching Coady Green blaze through two of Anton Rubenstein’s études with jaw-dropping precision.
🎶 Listen to the études: YouTube Link
🥁 Practising with Rhythm
David shares his experiment with using a drum machine instead of a metronome. Inspired by the idea that bands keep time with drummers, he’s testing this approach to add energy to his practice sessions. More updates coming in the next episode!
🎧 Podcast Pick: Start Here (Season 2)
A glowing recommendation for the Start Here podcast from ABRSM, hosted by Alexis Ffrench. It dives into musical genres beyond classical, including Drum & Bass, Drill, Gaming Music, and Opera—with expert guests each week.
🎹 Essay: What Does It Mean to "Play" the Piano?
In a thoughtful essay, David considers how different languages express playing music—and why in English we use the word “play.” Whether it’s for pleasure, growth, or expression, choosing to play is a powerful act. He reflects on the tension between delayed gratification and having fun now, and how tools like the Nord Stage 4 bring extra joy to learning.
🎵 Practice Progress
David continues work on preparatory pieces Afternoon Snooze and Blackout Blues, and starts a new piece from Grade 1: Der Vogelfänger bin ich ja from Mozart’s The Magic Flute, arranged by Barrie Carson Turner.
🏞️ Bonus Music Outing
A surprise chamber music concert at the Megalong Music Festival offered a magical Sunday and will be featured in more detail in the next episode.
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