Pianist Christopher Guild

I'm excited to share with you part of a recent conversation I had with the talented Scottish pianist, Christopher Guild. In this interview, we explore his latest recording project, which highlights the piano music of the renowned Scottish composer Ronald Stevenson. This project, released as Volume 7 in the ongoing series of recordings on Toccata Classics, features a diverse range of pieces, including both solo and duet works. Click HERE or on the photo below to watch to the interview.

A Glimpse into Ronald Stevenson's World

Ronald Stevenson, who lived from 1928 to 2015, was one of Scotland's premier composer-pianists, greatly influenced by the Golden Age of piano playing. Chris describes Stevenson’s musicianship as being very much in the tradition of pianists like Rachmaninoff, Hoffman, and Paderewski—figures who dominated the piano world in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. His playing was exceptional, and it’s clear from our conversation that Chris shares a deep admiration for Stevenson’s artistry.

Stevenson (photo below) was a prolific and eclectic composer, whose music drew inspiration from many different sources: Scottish folk music, English and Irish folk songs, as well as the famous composer Percy Grainger known for his British folk music. He was also fiercely dedicated to championing lesser-known composers and musicians, always advocating for the underdog in the musical world. Chris highlights how Stevenson’s compositions combine intricate pianism with a deep sense of cultural connection—whether through the folk-inspired melodies or the robust technical demands of his pieces.

The Collaborative Effort: Piano Duets and the Jamboree for Grainger

One of the most exciting aspects of this latest release is the inclusion of several piano duets, which Chris and I worked on together. These pieces were inspired by traditional folk songs from Scotland, Ireland, and even China. Chris explains that the collaboration involved performing the pieces as duets on a single piano as well as on two pianos, which added an extra layer of complexity and fun to the recording.

A highlight of the collection is "The Jamboree for Granger," a two-piano work that incorporates themes from Percy Grainger’s well-known compositions, including “English Country Garden.” The collaboration between Chris and I on this piece was especially enjoyable, and the energy of the two-piano arrangement really brings the piece to life. The playful nature of the arrangement allowed us to explore different interpretations, adding depth to the performance.

The Recording Process: Embracing Challenges

Recording music, especially duets, presents its own set of challenges. Chris emphasises that, although the process of recording can sometimes be stressful, it's an incredibly rewarding experience. As an adult piano learner, you might find it daunting to record yourself, especially when you're trying to balance precision with expression. But Chris’s approach to the recording process is a great reminder that it’s about capturing the essence of the music, not just achieving perfection.

He suggests that recording should be seen as a tool for growth, an opportunity to evaluate your playing and gain insights into areas that need attention. The idea is to embrace the challenge and enjoy the process—whether it’s working on solo pieces or collaborating with other musicians.

Performance Anxiety and Embracing the Nerves

Performance anxiety is something that everyone, from beginners to seasoned professionals, faces at some point. Chris shares his perspective on performance anxiety, emphasising that it’s not something to fear or avoid. Instead, it's something that can be embraced as part of the performance experience. He reminds us that nerves are a natural response to performing and, rather than trying to eliminate them, we should learn to manage them.

For adult learners especially, performing can feel like an overwhelming task, but Chris reassures us that every musician, no matter how experienced, faces similar challenges. His advice? Accept the nerves, focus on the music, and remember that it’s all part of the creative journey.

Conclusion

Chris’s insights into Ronald Stevenson's music and the recording process are not just informative but deeply inspiring for adult learners. The way he speaks about the music—its cultural significance, its technical demands, and the joy of collaborative playing—reminds us that piano playing is about more than just mastering the keys. It's about expressing ourselves through music, whether we're alone at the piano or playing with others. You can learn more and purchase a copy of the CD by clicking on the image below and you can learn more about Chris' other performances and recordings on his website www.christopherguild.co.uk

In the coming weeks, I’ll be sharing more from my conversation with Chris, including tips on interpreting music, dealing with performance anxiety, and much more. Stay tuned for further insights that can help you in your own piano journey!

Stay Connected and Keep Learning

If you enjoyed this article, don’t forget to check out my piano method book, Hey Presto! Adult Piano Method, designed to help beginners and returning players master the keys with confidence. You can also explore my comprehensive Adult Piano Beginners Course, which offers a wealth of resources to support your musical journey.

For more tips, educational content, and repertoire recommendations, join me on this exciting musical adventure. Together, we can make learning piano rewarding, fun, and stress-free.

Happy practicing!
Marcel Zidani
Award-winning composer, performer, and piano pedagogue