Ahead of my lesson this weekend, I'm sharing my practice journal for Ashokan Farewell. I am getting to grips with the overall piece but want to make it sound smoother, and work on the dynamics as well as add in the pedal. Last lesson Benedict told me about subdivision and using the metronome I've been using the quavers setting when I practice to help me break down the bars and work on the timings.

A tip I got from the above book was to build a system that over time will make change, rather than aim for a goal (often without a system to reach it). I realised I was just WISHING to practice the piano but always told myself I never had time. After listening to the above advice I decided to start a routine in which I would practice the piano after all chores etc done in the evening, for only 5 mins (if I do more, great, but no pressure). This way, even on the hardest, busiest days, I can still maintain my routine. Herbie Hancock said that you don’t need to be good straight away, you just need to be better than yesterday. So I have been doing this every evening for about two weeks now and loving it, and feeling like I am better than yesterday. Never done less than half hour cause I get so into it but I love knowing that if I can’t, 5 mins is also fine. Hope this helps someone!

I've been trying to play Ashokan Farewell for so long and never seem to make any progress and put it away again each time. Today I picked it back up and am determined to get a grip of it this time. I'm going to write down my practice and slow it right down, breaking it into smaller sections. Does anyone else have a nemesis piece you are going to revisit this year and how are you going to tackle it?

Happy New Year, Circle members! 🎹 As we move into 2026, this community is officially becoming member-led. To start the year strong, this month’s challenge isn’t about how many scales you can play—it’s about how we support each other. The Challenge: Between now and the end of January, your goal is to complete these three community actions: 1. Share a "Practice Pearl": Make a post sharing one tiny thing that helped your practice this week (e.g., a specific lighting setup, a way you mark your sheet music, or a favourite warm-up stretch). 2. The "High Five": Find a post from a fellow member in the Progress & Wins section and leave an encouraging comment. 3. The "Curiosity Question": Ask one question in the General Discussion area—it could be about gear, a piece of music, or how others find time to practice. Why take part? When you share what you’re doing, you aren’t just "posting"—you’re teaching. Even if you’re a total beginner, your perspective might be exactly what another member needs to hear to feel less alone in their journey. To enter: Once you’ve done all three, comment "ALL SET" on this post! Let’s see how much collective wisdom we can build this month. 🌿

Last week I started slowly practicing a piece I have been trying to master for a year at least. Using a journal to record my progress I have slowly worked all the way through to the end, a few bars at a time. Next step is to bring in the metronome to work on increasing the speed. It's been a real win for me, thanks to Benedict for your advice and encouragement 🙏