The advantages of mindfulness on its own have been well documented, you can look at the NHS’s own page for the tips and benefits, but what about the benefits of mindful piano playing?
Doug Hanvey documents that the benefits of mindful piano playing are sevenfold:
- To reduce stress
- To increase concentration
- To improve technique
- To better convey the emotional content of music
- To reduce the impact of negative thoughts on practising
- To reduce performance anxiety
- As a teaching strategy
Piano playing in and of itself can also be meditative – as Jamin Coller points out – the focused attention and emotional release often achieved in playing mimics the qualities of meditation.
If you’re intrigued about introducing mindfulness to your practice, why not peruse The Faber Music Mindful Piano Anthology a collection of calming pieces to unwind to, for the intermediate pianist. The collection offers a thoughtfully curated collection of more than 60 calming and reflective pieces. Presented in progressive order, it brings together music from a diverse range of composers and artists, including Laufey, Nils Frahm, John Cage and Ólafur Arnalds, alongside much-loved works by Sergei Prokofiev, Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, Cécile Chaminade and George Frideric Handel.
Elegantly bound and featuring Sympathy in White Major by Damien Hirst on the cover, this beautiful anthology is ideally suited to the growing demand for mindfulness, wellbeing, and relaxation-focused piano repertoire. Perfect for personal enjoyment, teaching, or gifting, The Faber Music Mindful Piano Anthology is a valuable addition to any pianist’s library.
Alongside the anthology we have created a playlist of the mindful track list from the anthology.