I have compiled a series of ‘bite-size’ études for pianists from early-advance to concert levels. These exercises are the foundational to the development of technique and musicality of a pianist, striking the balance between the technicality and musicality required of a well-rounded pianist. In particular, Charles-Louis Hanon exercises, deemed to be extremely tedious by many... Continue Reading →
Études Study and Virtousity
Études, a French word for study, is an imperative part of training to become an accomplished virtuoso pianist. Études is essential practice to increase a pianist’s endurance with and control of difficult passages. For advanced pianists, etudes like Chopin’s Opus10 and 25, Liszt’s 12 Transcendental Études, or the two sets of Rachmaninoff’s Études Tableaux Opus... Continue Reading →
Does Learning a Musical Instrument Instill Leadership?
‘Do we have enough leaders in our society?’ or ‘Do we expect everyone to be a follower?’ If the later, then who do we follow? What constitutes a great leader? Leaders are those who: Create inspiration that followers want to emulate Take great initiative and are proactive Cultivate collaboration and a team work spirit Make... Continue Reading →
What do you teach to a beginner during the 1st Piano Lesson?
To Parents – Principles that should be taught starting right from the first lesson During my early teaching years, I would normally select a tutor book and commence the first lesson from page one of the book. Many occasions, I did not know which book best suited my student’s needs in terms of their intellects,... Continue Reading →
Take Learning the Piano beyond the Practice Room
We all know that learning an instrument benefits us, encompassing health, mental cognitive capacity, and social and psychological aspects. It has therapeutic effects to helping children with autism, dyslexia, or can even help to de-stress you after a long hard day at work or school. It also offers to enrich your quality of life overall... Continue Reading →
Great reasons to practice Pianissimo……
In my recent blog called Piano Practice regarded as a Nuisance? I would like to take this opportunity to re-consider our practice approach. Besides my busy teaching schedules, I am always pleased and delighted to sit down after dinner to practice my repertoires. So many of us (piano teachers) can easily brush aside our own... Continue Reading →
Piano Practice regarded as nuisance. Here is what you should do! Part 2
In my previous blog, I posted on what preventative measures to consider and how to deal with sound mitigation for your piano should you receive a complaint from your neighbour(s). In this second half of my blog, I would like to shed some light on the legality aspects of this issue. I was fortunate to... Continue Reading →
Piano Practice regarded as a Nuisance? Here is what you should do! Part 1
Have you ever had a complaint from a neighbour about your piano playing? Have you ever thought how can my piano playing and practice become a nuisance to my neighbours? If you live in a flat, apartment or condominium type of living arrangement, it may well be a concern. Recently, I received a Cease and... Continue Reading →
What are the factors to consider when choosing your child’s piano teacher
Perhaps you are one of many parents who are confused as to which piano teacher you should choose for your child's piano lesson. Some may not even put much consideration when choosing a piano teacher. Most likely your local music store around the corner runs a music studio with a few on-site piano teachers and... Continue Reading →
Pianokeys
“The pianokeys are black and white but they sound like a million colors in your mind.” Maria Cristina Mena
Kim Chang's Piano Studio 