Pianoman

» What the schools say

The pianoMan project is a FREE GIFT to schools (most in the less-privileged areas of Britain) which has given life-changing opportunities to thousands of children. Richard Meyrick realises a life-long ambition to dispel much of the hype and mystique while introducing some of the world’s great musical heritage to young people in a truly inspiring way.

Richard launched the original pianoMan in 2005 with the generous sponsorship of Man Group plc and, during its three-year term, he worked with 191 schools throughout Britain. The second Pianoman series began in July 2009, thanks to private funding, and will run for five years.

Music gift for schools

A pianoMan Day typically commences with an early afternoon masterclass and workshop, in which Richard plays himself and helps local piano pupils as they perform music of their choice. In the evening Richard gives a formal recital for pupils, staff, parents, friends and the general public. If you need funds for your music department or for the school in general, here is an excellent opportunity to raise money through ticket sales.

Engaging, inspiring and fun

Richard is a born communicator and the success of pianoMan has assured its extension beyond the original 191 schools throughout the UK, Ireland and the Channel Islands since the programme began in 2005. For feedback from many of the schools that have so far experienced one of his visits click on What the Schools Say. Here is part of a letter from just one school in South Wales:

“Richard told stories, made us laugh, gave us lots of tips on performing and totally engaged his whole audience for almost two hours. He presented to pupils the joys and principles of performing.

An absolute joy

“The evening concert was well attended, with many of the pupils who had attended the Masterclass returning to hear Richard play - they felt he was their friend and they really wanted to hear his performance. Pupils of all ages, from year 7-13, attended this evening which was an absolute joy. The music chosen was exciting and audience-friendly and the programme notes filled us in on the background to the pieces. It was so great for the pupils to hear this performance on our school piano. Most students would never have gone to a concert hall to a piano recital but because it was in school, they felt at home and were 'bowled over' by Richard's performance.

Fantastic opportunity  for young people

“Richard is very accommodating, he understands young people, he is aware of the nature of their school day and understands that the bell may ring (!) and is flexible. This is part of what makes this whole experience so fantastic for young people - the professional is human and, just maybe, one of our students might be a professional performer one day. He has certainly inspired them to go for it.”

Many local authorities are now using the afternoon masterclass also as a Professional Development Day for their staff and peripatetic teachers. The classes enable Richard to hear literally hundreds of youngsters play and he presents Awards and Scholarships to many demonstrating particular eagerness and ability.  These children travel to London for one-to-one tuition with Richard at The Piano Studio with expenses paid for each one of themselves and an accompanying guardian. They participate in concerts and a number are featured on the most recent pianoMan DVD. What an opportunity!

For more information, please contact:
Ms Gian Woodburn
Email: giniawood7@gmail.com
Telephone: 01372 470993