I’m sharing a rare video of Art Tatum actually playing — worth watching simply to absorb what his hands and posture are doing. What always strikes me is how absurdly relaxed he looks. Almost to the point where you catch yourself thinking: “Is he even playing the piano?” And that’s the real lesson. ✨ Good technique looks different on every body We all have different hands, proportions, old habits, little tensions we carry. But one principle always holds: Good technique uses the least energy necessary to get the musical result you want. Tatum is a perfect demonstration — effortless, economical, no wasted motion. 🧩 How to use this in your own practice When you watch the video, notice: - How loose his shoulders are - How quietly the hands return to the keys - How nothing is gripping or bracing unnecessarily Then, when you’re practising: Treat relaxation as a musical element — something you deliberately build in. If that means slowing down a difficult section because you find yourself consciously releasing your left shoulder every time you hit the bass notes… that’s exactly what you should do. You slow the music down until relaxation is part of the version you can play. Only then do you bring the tempo back up. 🎧 Watch the video, take your time, and let Tatum’s ease rub off on you. What do you notice about his playing?

If you’ve been finding your piano journey a little clearer, calmer, or more enjoyable since joining the Circle, I’d love to hear your thoughts. It doesn’t have to be long — even a few sentences can really help someone who’s sitting on the fence about getting started. Your words show others that progress is possible — and that they’re not alone in figuring it out. As a small thank-you, I’ve put together another little musical gift for anyone who leaves a short review — something simple and encouraging to keep your practice flowing. 🎁 👉 Just DM me and I’ll send over the quick review links (takes about 5 minutes). Thank you so much for helping keep this community growing and grounded — it means more than you think. 🙏 — Benedict

Hi everyone, I’m a returning piano player looking to up my game in playing by ear. I came to realise that all I really wanted to do was sit down at the piano and play pieces I know and love with confidence! I sing too, so aim to accompany myself a bit more too.

A huge well done to Lucia, Justin, and Jon for this month’s beautiful concert performances — each brought such care, personality, and musical depth to their pieces. ✨ Lucia — for your thoughtful balance between the hands and that gentle, singing tone in Song of Twilight. 🎵 Justin — for learning Kiss the Rain to such a high standard so quickly, and shaping every phrase with real musical sensitivity. 🎹 Jon — for your Träumerei — a performance full of quiet narrative and expressive insight. You can watch the full replay here:👉 Monthly Concert Replay If you’d like to take part in the next concert, it’s simple: 1️⃣ Go to the Calendar tab inside the Circle. 2️⃣ Find the next Monthly Student Concert event. 3️⃣ Click the event and follow the short sign-up instructions there. These concerts are a lovely, calm way to share what you’ve been working on — whether your piece is complete or still in progress. Every performance helps you grow, and it’s always inspiring for others to hear. 🌿🎹

Does anyone have advice to encourage me please? I set aside time to practice, but lots of the time after sitting at the stool, I get distracted and start addressing other tasks that I've got to get done! I feel like it's really inhibiting my piano progress (despite being productive in other areas!) Thank you.