It was a pleasure to recently lead a music masterclass at Durham University for a group of dedicated piano and flute students. The session focused on tackling technical challenges that can hinder progress—whether it’s performance nerves, unwanted tension, or developing a fuller, more expressive tone.
One of the key techniques we explored was how to identify barriers to performance. Many students, in their effort to play well, tend to try too hard—leading to excessive tension and reduced musicality. By discussing the concept of relaxation and encouraging students to take more time to process between musical phrases, we found that their playing became more confident, fluid, and expressive.
Each student brought along a piece they found challenging or wanted to improve. The masterclass provided space to perform, receive constructive feedback, and refine their technique and musical understanding.
With a 100% exam success rate, I continue to support Durham University students—whether they’re preparing for assessments or simply passionate about improving their playing—helping them grow into more relaxed, expressive, and resilient musicians.