Show Notes
Something a little different this week: I thought we’d explore some psychological elements of the musical experience - specifically what makes us return to our first encounter with a work? How does this initial exposure cement our ongoing impressions of the piece; and are we missing out creatively because of this unconscious bias? [I failed to mention in the podcast, but the player of the Rachmaninov Piano Concerto No.3 was Bernd Glemser!]
For more information: whaviland.com/podcast
Happy piano playing/learning!
More from Piano Key A to G
Greetings to all new listeners! And to those of you returning: a sincere thank you for waiting so patiently. This is my return to piano podcasting, and the first of 2026 - the absence will be properly explained in the episode.
Today's piano podcast is, in timely fashion, an homage to the fallen heroes who gave their lives so that we may have ours. I will be talking briefly about the history and symbolism of perhaps that most famous of bugle calls: The Last Post. Why is this short work so infused with solemnity and meaning in our collective conscious?
This podcast episode commences a new series, on contemporary pianists that I consider the absolute best currently recording. And, we had to start with my personal favourite, Canadian artist Jesse Brown! I discovered his music in 2018, and his catalogue has been my steadfast companion ever since. Given that I’ve always received the best recommendations of new music from friends - most often just via hearing their background playlists, and being curious - I thought it might be nice to share my own discovery journery with you. We’ll delve a little into the background of this composer, and also listen to snippets of three special works, analyse their genesis, and certain interesting features. Chosen tracks as follows: Flocks [2018] Havana 2012 [2019] Reading the Clouds [2021]
Okay, I admit: shameless plug for my latest album 'Cutting Room Floor: One Take Solo Piano' which released this week. But, I also felt it an opportunity to discuss elements of refining your recordings - and sometimes, just 'letting it be' is the key.
Initially this show was planned to showcase the many physical and mental gains we may experience, on deciding to study the instrument. However, I soon realized this was not going to make for a particularly original podcast! So, instead, I’ve decided to talk about three very personal benefits that studying the piano has gifted me. I hope this bitesize episode will be an enticement to you, at whatever stage of your life, to consider delving into the fascinating world of the keyboard.