Alex Metcalfe performs Satie’s most important works, in character as the composer from the set of his Arceuil apartment. Sarah Miles’s script, edited from Satie’s own words, is narrated against the backdrop of Keith Lovegrove’s cinematic accompaniment. “It is a fabulously well-crafted work of cinematic excellence as well as being a masterly piano recital – when...
Tell us a bit about yourself: How did you become a piano tuner and restorer? I started in the piano business at the age of 17. I had moved to London to start work at Danemann piano manufacturers and learned how to make pianos there. I then moved to another well known company called Knight...
You might never have taken exam. You might have taken an exam years ago and are now unsure of your current level. You may not live in the UK and are unfamiliar with our grading system. Below is a rough guide to our course categories. We hope you find it useful! It’s not, however, always...
Some of our guests ask if they can bring along a partner or non-playing guest. Plus-ones are very welcome! It’s very easy to while away a couple of days enjoying the luxury of our grade I listed stately manor, the grand pianos, grounds, food and wine. However, non-playing guests and partners might like a few...
This coming January, Finchcocks is offering a very special piano retreat for those who want to get away from it all and re-focus on their playing. It is also ideal if you have been considering a course with us but are a bit scared of the idea of playing in front of others! This weekend...
How do you practise? : A question many an instrumental and singing teacher asks their students. The reaction is often one of awkward tumbleweed, or dazed confusion. (If the student knows, that is, that the answer should be something other than “Well, I play it through a few times.”!) It’s not a surprise how often...
Master composer, virtuso pianist and firm favourite comes to Finchcocks Chopin is considered one of the great masters of the Romantic era (~1800-1900), fathers of romantic piano music and a virtuso performer urivalled in his generation. He is revered amongst pianists and non-pianists alike for his painfully beautiful, soulful and intricate writing. Bio in bullets...
