My inspirations

[Marie P]

This is a challenge- I've been inspired by so many people and artists throughout my life.  I may be back to edit as the mood strikes me.

1- My parents (RIP).  They always had music playing in the house, and taught me an appreciation for it from early on (most likely in utero).  They also suffered hours of me practicing piano when I took lessons as a kid.  Bonus points- Dad worked third shift! 😬

2- My piano teacher Joe Piket.  He taught me the fundamentals at a young age.  I appreciate the patience he has as a teacher and the talent he has as a performer- I'm going to his show this coming weekend. 🙂

3- Billy Joel.  Most likely the first piano player I noticed when I was about 4 years old.

4- Jim Steinman.  He makes the piano sound like a legitimate rock instrument.

5- Andrew Lloyd Weber.   Phantom of the Opera - 'nuff said.

6- Claude-Michel Schönberg.  Les Misérables.  See 5 for further explanation.

7- Jon Pumper.  Created fantastic arrangements for The Greatest Showman soundtrack.  I'm currently working on From Now On and also the medley.

8- Vince Guardi.

9- Harry Connick Jr.

10- Cy Coleman.

11- Roger Williams

12- Emile Pandolfi.

13- Phil Coulter.

14- The Piano Guys.

15- Jonny May.  Last but certainly not least.  I had been playing for a while, but I was ready to start learning again.  I've discovered that when I purposefully seek something I am usually blessed to find it.  Jonny's courses are exactly what I was looking for, his courses dovetail perfectly with what Joe taught me, and his style of teaching is very similar.  I am very grateful to have this method of learning available to me.

 

Special mention goes to my husband Erik, who encourages my practicing and playing (and baby grand purchasing!) endeavors and reinforces my desire to play from my heart. 🙂