Episodios

  • Episode 9 - Making practice fun
    Jul 28 2024

    Welcome to Episode 9. Thanks for joining me this week. It has been busy; school is back for Term 3, which means this will be back into a normal rhythm but also much busier. My regular piano lessons will be starting back this coming week, and I’m looking forward to learning some new things over the coming term. Before the holidays, my piano teacher mentioned that she would be running a showcase concert in the middle of September. I don’t think I’m ready to perform in front of members of the public yet, even if those members are also piano learners. I’ll let you know my thoughts.

    Piano practice is something that all piano learners have to do. Unfortunately, there is no instant way of going from not being able to play to giving Lang Lang a run for his money without many thousands of hours of practice. I would hope that for most players, practice is at least enjoyable, but once the initial thrill of starting is over, it probably can’t be described as fun. Except that this week, I discovered something that made my practice much more fun.

    Send me a text message.

    You can contact me:

    • via email at david@pianofinally.show; this is probably the best option
    • the show website, www.pianofinally.show
    • Instagram and Threads @pianofinally
    • and on YouTube
    • all the podcast directories - list
    • here's the RSS feed

    Some of the links to books and other items mentioned in the podcast are affiliate links for Amazon or other providers. If you use one of these links, a commission may be paid to me at no additional cost to you. Thank you if you use a link.
    All reviews of products, websites and services are unpaid, and no sponsorship has been received for any content on this podcast.

    Más Menos
    13 m
  • Episode 8 - Murphy plays the piano
    Jul 21 2024

    Ever faced the frustration of coming home to find your prized electronic piano completely unresponsive? This week on Piano Finally, join me, David Reidy, as I recount my recent adventures—from a delightful trip to Queensland and smoothly handing over my Roland FP-30X to Nixon, Halley, and Ace, to the unexpected challenge of a non-functional Kawai NV-10 upon returning home. Discover the detailed troubleshooting process, the stellar customer service I received, and the planned repair that’s set to bring my piano back to life.

    But that’s not all. This episode delves into the vulnerabilities of electronic instruments and the concept of single points of failure. We’ll explore why having a backup plan is vital for any pianist. Whether you’re an enthusiast of electronic or acoustic pianos, there are valuable tips and reflections in this episode to keep your practice on track, despite any setbacks. Don’t miss this candid discussion on the joys and frustrations of learning the piano later in life!

    Send me a text message.

    You can contact me:

    • via email at david@pianofinally.show; this is probably the best option
    • the show website, www.pianofinally.show
    • Instagram and Threads @pianofinally
    • and on YouTube
    • all the podcast directories - list
    • here's the RSS feed

    Some of the links to books and other items mentioned in the podcast are affiliate links for Amazon or other providers. If you use one of these links, a commission may be paid to me at no additional cost to you. Thank you if you use a link.
    All reviews of products, websites and services are unpaid, and no sponsorship has been received for any content on this podcast.

    Más Menos
    13 m
  • Episode 7 - Passing it on
    Jul 14 2024

    Ever wondered how an old bloke like me, David Reidy, finally got around to learning the piano? Well, this week's episode is packed with insights and stories from my own musical journey.

    On top of that, I dive into a review of Alfred's Basic Piano Library All-in-One Course by Palmer, Manus, and Lethco, a stellar resource for young beginners. I share my thoughts on why this series could be a great starting point for the younger folks in your life. Reflecting on the musical influences in my own life, I highlight how mentorship and guidance are vital in nurturing a love for music. Tune in to hear stories about my neighbours who played everything from the oboe to the banjo, and the importance of passing on the joy of music to future generations.

    Send me a text message.

    You can contact me:

    • via email at david@pianofinally.show; this is probably the best option
    • the show website, www.pianofinally.show
    • Instagram and Threads @pianofinally
    • and on YouTube
    • all the podcast directories - list
    • here's the RSS feed

    Some of the links to books and other items mentioned in the podcast are affiliate links for Amazon or other providers. If you use one of these links, a commission may be paid to me at no additional cost to you. Thank you if you use a link.
    All reviews of products, websites and services are unpaid, and no sponsorship has been received for any content on this podcast.

    Más Menos
    11 m
  • Episode 6 - Making Progress
    Jul 7 2024
    Have you ever wondered if sight reading is truly essential for mastering the piano? Join me on this episode of "Piano. Finally," where we tackle this age-old debate head-on. I'll take you through my personal journey into sight reading, highlighting the transformative "Improve Your Sight Reading" series by Paul Harris. These books, organized with graded practice pieces, have been an invaluable resource in my practice, and I'll explain exactly why. Along the way, I'll share the importance of celebrating small wins and draw an analogy between learning piano and bushwalking, emphasizing the significance of tracking your progress to appreciate how far you've come.

    Stay tuned as I bring you up to speed on our podcast's availability across social media and how you can easily subscribe via popular platforms like Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and YouTube Podcasts. As we wrap up, I'll give you an update on my current project—a Samuel Arnold piece from "Getting to Grade 1," edited by Alyssa Milne. Despite some challenges with fingering and tempo, it's starting to come together, and I hope my experiences inspire your own musical journey. Keep your piano in tune, and may your practice sessions be filled with joy and progress.

    Send me a text message.

    You can contact me:

    • via email at david@pianofinally.show; this is probably the best option
    • the show website, www.pianofinally.show
    • Instagram and Threads @pianofinally
    • and on YouTube
    • all the podcast directories - list
    • here's the RSS feed

    Some of the links to books and other items mentioned in the podcast are affiliate links for Amazon or other providers. If you use one of these links, a commission may be paid to me at no additional cost to you. Thank you if you use a link.
    All reviews of products, websites and services are unpaid, and no sponsorship has been received for any content on this podcast.

    Más Menos
    13 m
  • Episode 5 - A teacher
    Jun 30 2024

    How are you going to learn the piano? Join me, David Reidy, in the latest episode of Piano Finally, where I kick off with an exciting update on the Gina Bachauer piano competition and its stellar performances with the Utah Symphony Orchestra. I also discuss the potential overhaul of the podcast website

    Later in the episode, I look at the benefits of private piano lessons as well as the hurdles involved in learning in the traditional way. I detail why I decided to choose this path and how it might work for you too.

    I also recommend the lamp I use at the piano (especially if you have a grand piano style instrument), and find a YouTube channel with some real flair.

    I hope you enjoy the fifth instalment of the podcast

    Send me a text message.

    You can contact me:

    • via email at david@pianofinally.show; this is probably the best option
    • the show website, www.pianofinally.show
    • Instagram and Threads @pianofinally
    • and on YouTube
    • all the podcast directories - list
    • here's the RSS feed

    Some of the links to books and other items mentioned in the podcast are affiliate links for Amazon or other providers. If you use one of these links, a commission may be paid to me at no additional cost to you. Thank you if you use a link.
    All reviews of products, websites and services are unpaid, and no sponsorship has been received for any content on this podcast.

    Más Menos
    15 m
  • Episode 4 - Why to start
    Jun 23 2024

    Have you ever felt overwhelmed by a busy schedule yet still found moments of inspiration that reignite your passion? Join me, David Reidy, as I navigate a week filled with debating competitions and school events, all while trying to squeeze in piano practice. Discover how a Year 8 student's original composition at our school's creative showcase provided a much-needed spark in my musical journey. With the holidays just around the corner, I'll share my plans for ramping up my practice time and aiming to catch up with my talented students.

    This week, I also delve into the world of metronomes with a comprehensive review of the Boss DB90. After testing various options, I've found this metronome to be an essential companion in my practice routine. Learn about its standout features, including the large backlit LCD display, adjustable tempo, and diverse sound options. I’ll also offer tips on setting up the device, like the importance of using the recommended power supply to avoid noise issues. Tune in to find out why the Boss DB90 has become a key player in my quest to master the piano and how it could benefit your practice sessions too.

    Send me a text message.

    You can contact me:

    • via email at david@pianofinally.show; this is probably the best option
    • the show website, www.pianofinally.show
    • Instagram and Threads @pianofinally
    • and on YouTube
    • all the podcast directories - list
    • here's the RSS feed

    Some of the links to books and other items mentioned in the podcast are affiliate links for Amazon or other providers. If you use one of these links, a commission may be paid to me at no additional cost to you. Thank you if you use a link.
    All reviews of products, websites and services are unpaid, and no sponsorship has been received for any content on this podcast.

    Más Menos
    12 m
  • Episode 3 - Where to start
    Jun 16 2024

    What if the key to mastering the piano lies in choosing the right instrument? Join me, David Reidy, on this episode of "Piano Finally," as I share my journey learning piano with the Roland FP-30X. You'll get an inside look at my practice sessions, the pieces I'm working on, and how the remarkable features of the Roland FP-30X are making a difference. From its 88 progressively weighted keys to the Supernatural Piano Sound Engine, discover why this keyboard is a game-changer for beginners, especially those planning to transition to acoustic pianos. We'll also explore the Roland FP-30X’s practical benefits, like its compact size, headphone outputs, Bluetooth audio, and MIDI connectivity.

    In the second part of the episode, I'll share essential contact resources for those looking to dive deeper into their piano journey. Reach out via email at david@pianofinallyshow or visit the website www.pianofinally.show for more details and show notes. I'll also bring you up to speed on my current practice piece, "Gigue" by Samuel Arnold, discussing my progress and the challenges I've encountered. As always, I aim to inspire you to keep enjoying your practice sessions and wish you a harmonious week ahead with your piano. Tune in to stay motivated and informed on your path to piano mastery!

    Send me a text message.

    You can contact me:

    • via email at david@pianofinally.show; this is probably the best option
    • the show website, www.pianofinally.show
    • Instagram and Threads @pianofinally
    • and on YouTube
    • all the podcast directories - list
    • here's the RSS feed

    Some of the links to books and other items mentioned in the podcast are affiliate links for Amazon or other providers. If you use one of these links, a commission may be paid to me at no additional cost to you. Thank you if you use a link.
    All reviews of products, websites and services are unpaid, and no sponsorship has been received for any content on this podcast.

    Más Menos
    16 m
  • Episode 2 - Planning to start
    Jun 9 2024

    Ever wondered how you can optimise your piano practice routine and set up a perfect practice space? Tune in as I, David Reidy, share my personal journey of dedicating five and a half hours of practice this week to Alyssa Milne's "Getting to Grade One." I also dive into the charming world of Samuel Arnold's "Gigue" and Manfred Schmitz's "Mini Hit," offering insights into my progress. Stay until the end to hear about "The Piano Doctor," a fascinating YouTube channel featuring a talented piano technician from West Michigan who not only showcases his skills but also teaches a course on becoming a piano technician. Additionally, I review a durable and battery-free metronome from Pianote that promises to help your practice sessions.

    Setting up your piano space is crucial for effective practice, and this episode provides the practical advice you need. From selecting the right digital piano to ensuring you have enough space, I cover it all. Learn the benefits of using headphones to practice quietly in shared living spaces and discover why a proper piano bench with adjustable height is essential for maintaining good posture. I'll also share tips on protecting your flooring and organising your growing collection of music books. Whether you're a beginner or looking to refine your practice environment, this episode is packed with valuable information to help you create an ideal piano practice space.

    Links
    Getting to Grade 1, edited by Alyssa Milne
    The Piano Doctor YouTube channel
    The Pianote Metronome

    Send me a text message.

    You can contact me:

    • via email at david@pianofinally.show; this is probably the best option
    • the show website, www.pianofinally.show
    • Instagram and Threads @pianofinally
    • and on YouTube
    • all the podcast directories - list
    • here's the RSS feed

    Some of the links to books and other items mentioned in the podcast are affiliate links for Amazon or other providers. If you use one of these links, a commission may be paid to me at no additional cost to you. Thank you if you use a link.
    All reviews of products, websites and services are unpaid, and no sponsorship has been received for any content on this podcast.

    Más Menos
    19 m