Piano Lessons in Birmingham

I just wish to wax lyrical about the beauty of entering pupils online with the Associated Board. I have been doing this for a few years and it is a joy. You get an extra week to ponder over who is to be entered, you can save entries and come back to them and there is an instant reply to say that the entry has been received. No worries over writing mistakes or the vagaries of the post!

This is always an exciting time for both myself and my pupils alike, the beginning of this term usually brings with it new challenges in brand new pieces, new exam grades, theory courses and themed music especially for Christmas and perhaps even for Halloween.

My timetable is usually in uproar for a couple of weeks while eveyone’s schooling and work arrangements sort themselves out.

I often welcome some new pupils at this time of year which is always a delight.

Hopefully we will have our first informal adults’ soiree this term. The plan is for adult pupils to get together in an informal environment with a few nibbles and play their current pieces to each other. Some will use the time as a mock exam, others will come to play their latest piece and see how it sounds in public. It is always good to have encouragement from one’s peers and to have a good old chat and moan about difficulties and successes.

I have a good number of pupils taking exams in November so it is full steam ahead for them over the coming months. Entries have to be made in two weeks so hopefully everyone will be on target for a good result.

A lovely evening was had by all, we had Piano trios and duets and individual pieces ranging from early beginner to grade 8 standard. We also had two singers who were a true delight. The evening ended with a timely and spine tingling version of Hedwig’s Theme from Harry Potter.

Everyone played very well and did themsleves proud. It really is not easy to play in front of so many people, so well done to all.

Over one hundred people were in the audience that evening – which is the biggest yet and it was great to see the Church 3/4 full. We were able to raise £187 for charity as a result of all the people who came. This will go to the RSPCA at Barnes Hill.

A special thanks must go to Kath and Bill who organise the refreshments so tirelessly and to my mother who does the programme. The cakes and savouries were plentiful and gorgeous.

Thank you also to the Church for allowing us to host the Concert there, it is very beautiful and adds a certain serenity to the proceedings.

Already ideas are coming in for innovations and bold ideas for next year so watch this space!