Question 1 of the ABRSM Music Theory Grade 6 exam tests your ability to harmonize a melody. In option (a) you can use Roman Numerals or modern chord notation; it is also possible to write notes on the staff providing [...]
The Invention and Sinfonia No. 2 in C minor by J.S. Bach are essential works for developing independence between the hands. The Invention (BWV 773) focuses on two-part counterpoint and it's practically a canon, while the Sinfonia (BWV 788) raises [...]
Practicing duets can be a challenge when you're at the piano alone. To help my students, I have recorded a full playlist of the Teacher's Part for the Melodious Exercises (Melodische Übungsstücke) Op. 149 by Anton Diabelli. Diabelli Op. 149 [...]
Preparing for the LCM Piano Grade 1 exam is a significant landmark for any student. While this specific syllabus dates back a few years and the pieces have changed, it is a great idea to study these pieces regardless, as [...]
Reaching ABRSM Theory Grade 5 is a significant milestone for any music student. It is the last of the so-called "lower grades" and the gateway for the higher ones, it presents few challenges but nothing that can't be overcome with [...]
This 50-minute session is a full breakdown of Petzold's Menuet in G Minor — but the practice strategies we work through apply to any piece at this level. If you're stuck on something and not sure why, this is worth [...]
If you have ever felt like your hands have a mind of their own — and not in a good way — then the keyboard music by J.S. Bach will put them back in line. In the video below, I [...]
Are Piano Exams a Good Idea? Balancing Landmark Results with a Wholesome Education When signing up for piano lessons, you are almost always faced with a choice: should you follow a graded path? Piano exams offered by boards like the [...]
Legacy Reference: This collection of videos was originally recorded for the 2018 LCM Step 1 syllabus. While this specific exam cycle has concluded, these performances remain an excellent technical benchmark for beginner students navigating their first musical milestones. The [...]
The Game of Thrones theme is one of those pieces that everyone recognises instantly — and one of the most requested I get from students. In this Game of Thrones piano tutorial, I cover the full opening theme from scratch: [...]
