How to Truly Listen - Evelyn Glennie

You're probably wondering why on earth I'm posting a piano technique video that is done by a non-pianist.  Years ago, when I first happened upon this video, I was not familiar with Evelyn Glennie.  Such a fabulous musician. And what a story.

There are many parallels here to Reese Piano Technique concepts, so I ask that everyone I coach watch it...several times.

Parallels

What are the parallels between Glennie's technique and Reese Piano Technique?

• A flexible hand and palm. No gripping or grabbing.

• The entire body is always involved in the playing.

• Colorful, expressive playing is achieved by action, not by arm weight, or strong fingers, or relaxation.

• How to listen with more than just your ears.

• Interpreting the score. The music is not the black dots on the page.

• Start with sound and how to produce what you want to hear. Starting students out with reading and exercises is deadening to musicality. Sound first.

• Have something to say, and say it.

In my article, The Piano…a Stubborn Mule?, I addressed the connection of inflection, expression, and color in our daily speech to achieving these same 3 things in our playing. That connection continues here.

This is an amazing story.  Enjoy.  And please comment below--let's start a discussion.