Musical Beginnings

Everybody has a different motivation for wanting to play a musical instrument. For some, their choice of instrument is shared by an appreciation of a particular style of music; others decide to learn simply because their friends or relatives play already. Yet in the majority of cases, the principal deciding factor is the sound it makes - and who could fail to be impressed by the beautiful and persuasive, yet complete sound of the modern pianoforte: an instrument that is as sympathetic to jazz and contemporary idioms as it is to classical repertoire.

But regardless of your reasons for considering the instrument, when the time comes to start your lessons, think carefully about choosing an experienced and qualified professional. Any amateur musician can correct mistakes but only a professional teacher with specialist knowledge and skills will understand what it takes to develop your playing across a more expansive and challenging plane.

With so many teachers to choose from, it is never easy to know which one is most suitable for you. Nevertheless, I hope that you are a step closer to that difficult decision after you have completed the Introductory Tour. I cannot promise from the outset that the challenge ahead is an easy one – learning to play the piano will certainly require a great deal of personal commitment. I can, however, promise you all the support and encouragement along the way to ensure your journey towards musical accomplishment is both enjoyable and immensely rewarding.

I look forward, with optimism, to meeting you in due course.

Ian M J Pickett
MA [Reading], BA (Hons), LNCM [Perf.], MNCMSoc