I wrote an article in May for the International Piano Magazine about how three British pianists had managed lockdowns in the UK.

The calm and peace that comes from more spaciousness in our lives rebalances us away from our anxious, panicky selves that need to be doing

Perfectionism is the drive to give a ‘perfect performance’ with a feeling of not being good enough - dangerous for a performer.

During this time of masks and distancing we need to let go of muted lockdown playing and find colour and projection again in performance

Covid-19 has had a monumental impact on musicians: concerts cancelled, incomes have plummeted and musicians have become experts in Zoom.

Musicians are struggling: not being able to work, losing a sense of identity. How do we manage our emotions with these challenges?

I remember Joan talking about how to rehearse chamber music, saying you need to air your views, explore them and disagree if needs be

This student reminded me of the importance of human connection, in this case through creative expression.

Here are a few things that I find myself saying to nervous musicians in masterclasses, and each time, they have a drama impact.