I grew up in a family of 12. I learned by ear and by one brother and one sister who took lessons. I would pick my lessons from what I liked that they were learning. My sister started me on Grieg piano concerto, my brother started me on some pop music.
I practised a lot, but not reading.
After graduating from the University, I took a job in a Benedictine Abbey where I lived in an empty dorm wing near the top floor. There I lived for two years and really God was calling, but I didn't want to be a monk. So I went out the door like old fashioned apostle... except I wore shoes.
Music is good monk work. You keep busy and stay out of people's way mostly. If you know what's good for you. But you can still find ways to get in trouble.
I found I liked to spend the work day at the piano. I composed a piano concerto along with these pieces. Now I find most modern composing takes a shortcut past the score and many composers just put the music to use on film. I have about 170 videos on Youtube. (Hide extended text) ... (Read all)
