Oli Howe is a keys player, producer and prominent figure in the UK scene and has shared stages with the likes of Yoland Brown, Omar Lyefook, Tortured Soul, Freak Power, The House & Garage Orchestra, Billy Cobham and Taylor McFerrin while drawing sold-out houses with headline shows at top UK venues such as Ronnie Scott’s Jazz Club, Pizza Express Jazz Club, Brighton Jazz Festival and most recently Love Supreme Jazz Festival. 

 

In 2023, Oli released, “Six”  which explores high-energy live band performances, and extreme feel-good vibes blurring the lines between jazz, fusion, RnB, gospel and hip-hop.

 

In this episode Adam and Oli chat about:

• The difference is between playing piano and playing keys
• Oli’s process for teaching himself jazz piano and why the Internet has completely transformed education
• Oli’s top tips for starting out with social media and how to build a following online
• Secrets for developing your chords and finding interesting reharmonisations

 

This is the final episode of Season 1! Season 2 will be dropping later this year - keep an eye out on social media for more info.

 

Oli Howe's Instagram

'Six' on Bandcamp

 

YouTube Tutorial: How to Master Inversions

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Hosted by Adam Saunders

Music - https://www.davidcuttermusic.com/

Nicky Brown is a keys player and producer, and a highly respected figure in the music industry, known for his exceptional talent as a Musical Director. He has worked with artists, including Emeli Sandé, Michael Bolton, Tom Jones, Earth Wind and Fire, and Madonna, among many others.

 

In this episode, Adam and Nicky chat about:

• Nicky’s incredible career in the music industry
• Why it’s so important to have mentors to help you along the way
• Why playing keys in church is the best learning ground
• Why it’s not about the amount of notes you play, but how meaningful those notes are
• Why as keys players, we need to play the song, rather than just the groove.

 

Nicky's Instagram

 

YouTube Tutorial: The Ultimate Piano Warm Up

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Hosted by Adam Saunders

Music - https://www.davidcuttermusic.com/

 

 

Join Adam Saunders and Simeon Smith for Part 2 of the The Keys Coach Podcast Xmas Special. Get in the festive, pre-New Year mood as they round up the year and chat all things Piano, Harmony, Practice and lots more!

Plus special guest appearances from Fraser Churchill, Pete Churchill and Joe Webb.

 

In this episode, discover:

• Simeon's secret routine for keeping in shape on the piano
• Why the chord symbol 'add9' can be problematic
• Why Adam practises modes from Bright to Dark
• A sneak peek of the guests lined up for 2024... and much, much more!

 

Lastly, the podcast will be taking a short break at the beginning of 2024 and will be returning on Thursday 18th January. In the meantime - Happy New Year!

Join Adam and Simeon Smith for a special edition of The Keys Coach Podcast. Get in the festive mood as they round up the year and chat all things Christmas, Piano, Keys, Chords, Gear and much, much more! 

Plus special guest appearances from Janette Mason and Oli Rockberger.

 

In this episode you will learn:

• Why perfect pitch can be both a blessing and a curse
• How Simeon learned to play classical piano pieces by ear
• Why Adam and Simeon both share a love for Nord keyboards
• Adam's hidden aspiration of becoming a local radio DJ, and lots, lots more!

 

Join us for Part 2, dropping on the 28th of December!

Adam Dennis has performed with Noel Gallagher, Robbie Williams, Tony Christie and Freya Ridings amongst many others. He’s a regular in the West End, the BBC Radio 2 Piano Room, as well as the house band for live TV shows, including Strictly Come Dancing and the Royal Variety Performance.

 

In this episode you will learn:

• The importance of being adaptable and versatile as a keyboard player
• How Adam stays ‘in-shape’ on the piano and how he prepares for live gigs
• How he practices with a metronome while still maintaining fluidity
• What advice Adam would give anyone wanting to enter the session world… and lots, lots more!

 

Adam’s Instagram

Recreating Iconic Sounds with the Mellotron V

 

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Phil Merriman is a pianist, keys player and arranger. He is equally at home playing classical, pop and jazz and has a huge love for Gospel music. He has performed with artists such as Andrew Small, Brendan B. Brown, CeCe Peniston and Polly Gibbons amongst many others!

 

In this episode you will learn:

• Why John Taylor was such a huge influence on Phil
• Why Phil records every gig he does, and then listens back and makes notes!
• How Phil developed a love for gospel music and synth bass
• Why tone production on the piano, is so important and why it often gets overlooked
• How ‘Transcribing’ can mean various things to different people… and lots, lots more!

 

FOLLOW PHIL ON INSTAGRAM

ANGEL OF THE PRESENCE - JOHN TAYLOR

 

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Conor Albert is a South London-based keys player, guitarist, songwriter and producer. A self-taught multi-instrumentalist he started making beats at the age of 8, finding an audience for his early demos on SoundCloud. It was listening to FKJ and Jordan Rakei whilst learning piano in his teens that encouraged him to make soulful, jazz-influenced, beat-driven music.

 

 

In this episode you will learn:

 

• How Conor taught himself keys, and why discovering jazz harmony helped fuel his passion for songwriting
• What a typical writing day looks like and how he approaches creating new music
• Why Conor decided to take a break from social media
• Why Conor and Adam share a mutual love for the 1975… and lots, lots more!

 

 

FOLLOW CONOR ON INSTAGRAM

 

CONOR ALBERT & JAMES SMITH - CRESCENT MOON (LIVE)

 

 

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Louis Querelle is a piano and keys player who has performed with Niall Horan, Olly Murs and Amy Macdonald amongst many others.

 

In this episode you will learn:

• What it’s like touring the world in Niall Horan’s band
• What Louis practises to keep match-fit on the piano while on the road
• Why the Nord Stage is Louis’ go-to keyboard
• What it was like playing for President Biden at the White House… and lots, lots more!

 

Follow Louis on Instagram

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George Moore is a keys player, MD and songwriter, based in London. George has played on numerous records including projects with Kwabs and Mura Masa. As a songwriter he has worked with Stormzy, Clean Bandit, Yebba, Bren Joy and Cat Burns amongst many others.

 

In this episode you will learn:

• What it was like to write ‘Firebabe’ for Stormzy’s latest album
• How George keeps in shape on the piano
• Why hanging out with an artist before a session, ultimately leads to a better song
• Why learning the drums is so useful as a keys player… and lots, lots more!

 

George's Instagram

George Moore Discog - Spotify Playlist

 

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Hosted by Adam Saunders

Music - dcuttermusic.com

Joe Webb is a highly regarded pianist, jazz musician, and composer, originally from Wales. He has emerged as a leading force on the U.K jazz scene today, captivating audiences with his exceptional talent and rockstar-like persona. Joe is known for his work with the acclaimed Webb City, Kansas Smitty's, Adrian Cox & Rob Luft, and has collaborated with artists like Jamie Cullum.

 

In this episode you will learn:

• What drew Joe to the piano in the first place
• How to practice stride piano while watching TV
• What it was like performing on Jamie Cullum’s Christmas album
• Why Joe’s first album was described as the soundtrack to an imaginary 60s pool party… and lots, lots more!

 

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🔗 CONNECT WITH JOE

Instagram

Website

Stream ‘Munchin’ In Munchen’

 

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⭐️ LEAVE A REVIEW

If you’re enjoying the podcast, please consider leaving a 5-star review on Apple Podcasts. Your feedback is greatly appreciated and helps support the show and grow our community.

If you have any guest suggestions or would like to get in touch, you can do so by emailing adam@thekeyscoach.com - we reply to every email!

 

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Hosted by Adam Saunders

Music - dcuttermusic.com

Richard Taylor is a keys player, producer and MD who has played with Emin, Ronan Keating, David Foster, Nile Rodgers, Little Mix, James Arthur and many more.

 

In this episode you will learn:

• What it was like playing with bands like Five, Westlife and All Saints during the heyday of the boyband & girlband era
• How muscle memory can play a huge part when it comes to learning songs
• How Richard’s tech setup on stage can vary from artist to artist
• Why if you can hear the click.. you’re often not playing with the click, and lots, lots more!

 

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🔗 CONNECT WITH RICHARD

Instagram

 

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⭐️ LEAVE A REVIEW

If you’re enjoying the podcast, please consider leaving a 5-star review on Apple Podcasts. Your feedback is greatly appreciated and helps support the show and grow our community.

If you have any guest suggestions or would like to get in touch, you can do so by emailing adam@thekeyscoach.com - we reply to every email!

 

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Hosted by Adam Saunders

Music - dcuttermusic.com

Tina Hizon is a keys player, MD and Producer. She has played with Dua Lipa, Roger Taylor, the Pet Shop Boys, Clean Bandit, Becky Hill and she is currently touring with Maisie Peters and Ed Sheeran. Tina has performed on live television shows such as Later with Jools Holland, Jimmy Kimmel, James Corden, The Today Show, X Factor, Britain's Got Talent and she has also performed at music festivals such as Coachella, Glastonbury, Rock in Rio & Stereosonic.

 

In this episode you will learn:

• How Tina developed her love for performance aged just 4 years old
• Why the Keytar has given her even more freedom on stage
• What Tina practices when she has a rare day off
• How to stay grounded, while touring the world and lots, lots more!

 

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🔗 Connect with Tina

Instagram

Tina Hizon Live Playlist

 

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⭐️ Leave a Review

If you’re enjoying the podcast, please consider leaving a 5-star review on Apple Podcasts. Your feedback is greatly appreciated and helps support the show and grow our community.

If you have any guest suggestions or would like to get in touch, you can do so by emailing adam@thekeyscoach.com - we reply to every email!

 

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Hosted by Adam Saunders

Music - dcuttermusic.com

In this solo episode, Adam explains how the Podcast is gearing up to be bigger and better than ever before, ready for the launch of Season 2... and we need your help!

 

CLICK HERE to fill out the Podcast Feedback Survey.

 

The podcast returns for the remainder of Season 1, next Thursday with the awesome Nicky Brown.

Oli Rockberger is a keys player, songwriter, vocalist, recording artist and producer. He has performed/recorded with Carly Simon, John Mayer, Steve Jordan, Chaka Khan and Louis Cole. He is a member of Laura Mvula’s band and recent highlights include recording as a featured vocalist on her Ivor Novello winning ‘Pink Noise’ album and performing at Wembley Stadium supporting Coldplay.

 

In this episode you will learn:

• How Oli developed his own vocabulary on the piano and as a songwriter
• Why it’s important to have your own musical voice as a session keys player
• How there are several levels of learning songs
• Why it’s important to finish your ideas… and lots, lots more.

 

- - - 

🔗 Connect with Oli

Instagram

Website

You Got Me - Laura Mvula (Live on Later)

Hiromi's Sonicwonder - "Reminiscence" featuring Oli Rockberger

 

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⭐️ Leave a Review

If you’re enjoying the podcast, please consider leaving a 5-star review on Apple Podcasts. Your feedback is greatly appreciated and helps support the show and grow our community.

If you have any guest suggestions or would like to get in touch, you can do so by emailing adam@thekeyscoach.com - we reply to every email!

 

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Hosted by Adam Saunders

Music - dcuttermusic.com

Janette Mason is a pianist, keys player and composer. From her high profile gigs throughout the 90's touring with artists like Seal, Oasis, k.d. lang and Robert Wyatt, to the years on camera as Musical Director for Jonathan Ross and Antoine De Caunnes, she has proven to be a consummate musician and a standout talent in Jazz, Pop, Indie, Rock and World Music.

 

In this episode you will learn:

• Why putting your own music out there, is the best way to stay creative as a musician
• Janette's unique approach to 'twisting' the music of Prince and David Bowie
• How to keep 'in shape' on the piano (a technique Deep Dive!)
• What it is like performing on live TV on a weekly basis... and lots, lots more!

_ _ _

🔗 Connect with Janette

Website

ReWired - 27th November (Pizza Express)

Wall to Wall George Michael - December 15th/16th (Exchange Theatre)

 

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Level up your piano playing with The Keys Coach! Join an awesome online community of like-minded musicians, access free expert content, and unleash your musical potential today!

Whether you're a beginner seeking a solid foundation or an experienced pianist aiming to refine your skills, The Keys Coach has got you covered.

Follow us on 📷 Instagram

 

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⭐️ Leave a Review

If you’re enjoying the podcast, please consider leaving a 5-star review on Apple Podcasts. Your feedback is greatly appreciated and helps support the show and grow our community.

If you have any guest suggestions or would like to get in touch, you can do so by emailing adam@thekeyscoach.com - we reply to every email!

 

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Hosted by Adam Saunders

Music - dcuttermusic.com

Pete Churchill is a pianist, singer, teacher, songwriter… the list goes on! He has taught and inspired countless musicians. Amongst many other things, he teaches at the Royal Academy of Music and directs the amazing London Vocal Project.

 

In this episode you will learn:

• How transcribing James Taylors guitar picking, transformed the way Pete thinks about the piano and harmony
• Why understanding intervals helped Pete unlock being able to play in all keys
• Pete’s approach to singing and playing at the same time
• Why Pete thinks of his right hand like a gospel choir… and lots, lots more!

 

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🔗 Connect with Pete

The London Vocal Project

James Taylor Songbook Tickets

Stories To Tell

 

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🎹 The Keys Coach

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Level up your piano playing with The Keys Coach! Join an awesome online community of like-minded musicians, access free expert content, and unleash your musical potential today!

Whether you're a beginner seeking a solid foundation or an experienced pianist aiming to refine your skills, The Keys Coach has got you covered.

Follow us on 📷 Instagram

 

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⭐️ Leave a Review

If you’re enjoying the podcast, please consider leaving a 5-star review on Apple Podcasts. Your feedback is greatly appreciated and helps support the show and grow our community.

If you have any guest suggestions or would like to get in touch, you can do so by emailing adam@thekeyscoach.com - we reply to every email!

 

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Hosted by Adam Saunders

Music - dcuttermusic.com

Andy Yeates is a piano and keys player. He has played with Callum Scott, Sam Fischer and James TW amongst many others.

 

In this episode you will learn:

• How Andy thinks of the piano as an orchestra
• How you can create ‘gear changes’ when playing solo piano
• Why certain voicings lend themselves to creating smooth movement between chords in your right-hand
• What life is like on the road
• What the role of a Musical Director entails… and lots, lots more!

 

_ _ _

🔗 Connect with Andy

Instagram

Calum Scott - "Biblical" Performance on The Today Show

 

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Level up your piano playing with The Keys Coach! Join an awesome online community of like-minded musicians, access free expert content, and unleash your musical potential today!

Whether you're a beginner seeking a solid foundation or an experienced pianist aiming to refine your skills, The Keys Coach has got you covered.

Follow us on 📷 Instagram

 

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⭐️ Leave a Review

If you’re enjoying the podcast, please consider leaving a 5-star review on Apple Podcasts. Your feedback is greatly appreciated and helps support the show and grow our community.

If you have any guest suggestions or would like to get in touch, you can do so by emailing adam@thekeyscoach.com - we reply to every email!

 

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Hosted by Adam Saunders

Music - dcuttermusic.com

Fraser Churchill is an English/Canadian singer-songwriter, topliner, and guitarist. His international breakthrough came with the Charlie Puth song, “Patient”. He also co-wrote the 2021 Grammy-nominated Mickey Guyton song, “Black Like Me,” the Lukas Graham single, “Call My Name,” Grammy Award Winning “Baby I’ll Wait” by Michael Buble, “High Heels” by Walker Hayes feat. Flo Rida, and the Ronan Keating feat. Emeli Sande song, “One Of A Kind.”

 

In this episode you will learn:

• How Fraser started writing songs and his secret to crafting 200+ songs every year
• The Warner Chappell Music songwriting camp experience, pitching tunes to artists like Bieber and Rihanna
• The story behind "Baby I'll Wait" and how the song made its way onto Michael Bublé's latest album
• How Fraser balances writing for others while also releasing his own music, plus lots, lots more!

 

_ _ _

🔗 Connect with Fraser

Instagram

Written by Fraser Churchill - Spotify Playlist

Baby I’ll Wait - Michael Buble

Pre-save 'Fever' (out on October 6th)

 

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Level up your piano playing with The Keys Coach! Join an awesome online community of like-minded musicians, access free expert content, and unleash your musical potential today!

Whether you're a beginner seeking a solid foundation or an experienced pianist aiming to refine your skills, The Keys Coach has got you covered.

Follow us on 📷 Instagram

 

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⭐️ Leave a Review

If you’re enjoying the podcast, please consider leaving a 5-star review on Apple Podcasts. Your feedback is greatly appreciated and helps support the show and grow our community.

If you have any guest suggestions or would like to get in touch, you can do so by emailing adam@thekeyscoach.com - we reply to every email!

 

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Hosted by Adam Saunders

Music - dcuttermusic.com

Hope is a keys player, singer, and songwriter from London. Coming from a non-musical family, Hope is a primarily self-taught musician, with a passion for music as a driver for personal, social and cultural change. She left school at 16 to pursue a career focusing on songwriting, releasing original singer-songwriter material via streaming platforms and live performances.

 

In this episode you will learn:

• How Hope approaches songwriting, keys playing and live performance
• Strategies for navigating the online space as an independent artist
• What it was like being on the board of directors for the Ivors Academy
• How Hope learnt her craft by regularly performing an entire evening’s worth of audience song requests with a live band… and lots more!

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🔗 Connect with Hope

Instagram

‘She’ - Hope Winter

Website

 

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Level up your piano playing with The Keys Coach! Join an awesome online community of like-minded musicians, access free expert content, and unleash your musical potential today!

Whether you're a beginner seeking a solid foundation or an experienced pianist aiming to refine your skills, The Keys Coach has got you covered.

Follow us on 📷 Instagram

 

_ _ _

⭐️ Leave a Review

If you’re enjoying the podcast, please consider leaving a 5-star review on Apple Podcasts. Your feedback is greatly appreciated and helps support the show and grow our community.

If you have any guest suggestions or would like to get in touch, you can do so by emailing adam@thekeyscoach.com - we reply to every email!

 

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Hosted by Adam Saunders

Music - dcuttermusic.com

Dan Bingham is a keys player who has performed with James Arthur, The Streets, Sophie Ellis Bextor, Take That and many others! He is soon to be releasing a piano EP under his own name.

 

In this episode you will learn:

• Dan’s approach to learning songs for upcoming gigs and tours
• How Dan uses Instagram to store some of his musical ideas
• How the ‘felt piano’ sound has influenced Dan’s playing and writing
• Dan’s approach to learning by ear… and lots, lots more!

 

_ _ _

🔗 Connect with Dan

Instagram

One For Buddy - Nord Live

 

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🎹 The Keys Coach

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Level up your piano playing with The Keys Coach! Join an awesome online community of like-minded musicians, access free expert content, and unleash your musical potential today!

Whether you're a beginner seeking a solid foundation or an experienced pianist aiming to refine your skills, The Keys Coach has got you covered.

Follow us on 📷 Instagram

 

_ _ _

⭐️ Leave a Review

If you’re enjoying the podcast, please consider leaving a 5-star review on Apple Podcasts. Your feedback is greatly appreciated and helps support the show and grow our community.

If you have any guest suggestions or would like to get in touch, you can do so by emailing adam@thekeyscoach.com - we reply to every email!

 

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Hosted by Adam Saunders

Music - dcuttermusic.com

Liam Dunachie is a pianist, keys and hammond organ player. He has worked in a wide variety of contexts, including BBC2’s series “The Choir” with Gareth Malone and Radio 2's "Friday Night Is Music Night”. He has worked with Beverley Knight and is currently on tour with veteran DJ Tony Blackburn's "Sounds of the 60's Live". Liam is also a keys player on several top West End shows including “Back To The Future”, “Phantom of the Opera” and “Guys and Dolls”.

He is a sideman for many top UK jazz musicians and has performed at all of the UK’s major venues including Ronnie Scott's, Pizza Express Dean St, Royal Albert Hall, Glastonbury Festival's Pyramid Stage, Wembley Arena, The Royal Festival Hall and The Palladium.

 

In this episode you will learn:

• What it’s like to dep on several West End shows
• Liam’s top tips for playing Hammond!
• How you can develop versatility as a keys player… and lots, lots more!

 

- - - 

🔗 Connect with Liam

Website

Sound of the Sixties Tour

 

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🎹 The Keys Coach

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Level up your piano playing with The Keys Coach! Join an awesome online community of like-minded musicians, access free expert content, and unleash your musical potential today!

Whether you're a beginner seeking a solid foundation or an experienced pianist aiming to refine your skills, The Keys Coach has got you covered.

Follow us on 📷 Instagram

 

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⭐️ Leave a Review

If you’re enjoying the podcast, please consider leaving a 5-star review on Apple Podcasts. Your feedback is greatly appreciated and helps support the show and grow our community.

If you have any guest suggestions or would like to get in touch, you can do so by emailing adam@thekeyscoach.com - we reply to every email!

 

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Hosted by Adam Saunders

Music - dcuttermusic.com

Ed Blunt is a pianist and songwriter who has worked with Tom Odell, Niall Horan, Westlife, JP Cooper, Elles Bailey, Beth Nielsen Chapman and Hollie Rogers - amongst many others!

Described as “brilliant” by Chris Difford of Squeeze, Ed released ‘Over The Moon’, his first album as a songwriter in 2022. Ed is also the musical director for the amazing Camden Voices.

 

In this episode you will learn:

• Why learning drums can really enhance your keys playing
• Ed’s approach to writing songs and generating lyrics
• How the piano can be such a useful tool when writing interesting arrangements for choir
• Ed’s approach to transcribing songs for the piano… and lots, lots more!

_ _ _

🔗 Connect with Ed

Website

Instagram

Over The Moon (Ed’s Album)

The Dome of St Pauls

Camden Voices (Ed’s Choir)

Camden Voices - True Colours

 

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🎹 The Keys Coach

Join The Waitlist! 🚀

Level up your piano playing with The Keys Coach! Join an awesome online community of like-minded musicians, access free expert content, and unleash your musical potential today!

Whether you're a beginner seeking a solid foundation or an experienced pianist aiming to refine your skills, The Keys Coach has got you covered.

Follow us on 📷 Instagram

 

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⭐️ Leave a Review

If you’re enjoying the podcast, please consider leaving a 5-star review on Apple Podcasts. Your feedback is greatly appreciated and helps support the show and grow our community.

 

If you have any guest suggestions or would like to get in touch, you can do so by emailing adam@thekeyscoach.com - we reply to every email!

 

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Hosted by Adam Saunders

Music - dcuttermusic.com

Pianist, Keyboardist, Songwriter and Producer Jamie Safir has worked with some of the finest names in popular music including Will Young, Kylie Minogue, Birdy, Mica Paris, Olly Murs and The Brand New Heavies.

As a prominent member of the UK Jazz Scene Jamie plays with Ian Shaw, Claire Martin, Liane Carroll, Emma Smith and Iain Ballamy.

In this conversation, Jamie talks about his early days, growing up in Manchester and then moving to London. He talks about life on the road in Will Young’s band, his love for Nord Keyboards and talks us through how he put together his solo show ‘Piano Talk’, which offers a glimpse into the glamorous and not-so-glamorous life of a piano player.

Plus, don't miss Jamie's valuable advice for aspiring musicians entering the industry!

 

🔗 Connect with Jamie

Instagram

Website

Real Book North West

Greek Street Friday

Jamie Safir & Andy Schofield - 13th November as part of the London Jazz Festival

🎹 The Keys Coach

Join The Waitlist! 🚀

Level up your piano playing with The Keys Coach! Join an awesome online community of like-minded musicians, access free expert content, and unleash your musical potential today!

Whether you're a beginner seeking a solid foundation or an experienced pianist aiming to refine your skills, The Keys Coach has got you covered.

Follow us on 📷 Instagram

 

 

⭐️ Leave a Review

If you’re enjoying the podcast, please consider leaving a 5-star review on Apple Podcasts. Your feedback is greatly appreciated and helps support the show and grow our community.

 

 

If you have any guest suggestions or would like to get in touch, you can do so by emailing adam@thekeyscoach.com - we reply to every email!

Hosted by Adam Saunders

Music - dcuttermusic.com

David Bennett is a pianist, composer and YouTuber.

With a following of almost 1 million subscribers, his videos use music theory to analyse and appreciate some of the most revered music of the last one hundred years. David's first love is composing. His style is meditative, minimalist and, very much, piano-focused. In 2024, David is set to release a new collection of original songs.

 

In this episode Adam and David chat about:

• Why finding the right teacher is so important when starting on the piano
• Why it’s vital to have a creative project on-the-go
• David’s top tips for getting out of familiar shapes and patterns, and ways to generate new ideas
• Why The Beatles are such a huge source of inspiration
• Plus we also do a deep-dive into why YouTube is such an awesome opportunity for musicians and creators.

 

David's YouTube Channel

 

 

YouTube Tutorial: 3 Secrets for Crafting AWESOME Chord Sequences

Follow the Keys Coach on Instagram

 

Hosted by Adam Saunders

Music - https://www.davidcuttermusic.com/

Mike MacLennan is a TV & Film composer. Recent work includes the flagship BBC1 series Who Do You Think You Are, and he is currently co-scoring an upcoming natural history feature for Netflix with Paul-Leonard Morgan. He has written music for The Grand Tour (Amazon), Designated Survivor (Netflix) and the hit TV show, Dynasty. He has also composed additional music for a number of TV & film projects, working most recently with David Arnold on the BBC One drama Inside Man, starring Stanley Tucci & David Tennant. 

In this special bonus episode, we delve into what it means to be a media composer. Mike initially started out learning piano, and he knew from an early age that he wanted to work in the TV and Film industry.

----more----

In this episode, you will learn:

• How Mike uses the piano to approach writing music for TV shows like Designated Survivor and Dynasty
• How anyone can get started writing orchestral music
• Why Library music is often referred to as a composers pension!
• And much, much more!

 

 

🔗 Connect with Mike

Instagram

Website

Spotify

 

 

🎹 The Keys Coach

Join The Waitlist! 🚀

Level up your piano playing with The Keys Coach! Join an awesome online community of like-minded musicians, access free expert content, and unleash your musical potential today!

Whether you're a beginner seeking a solid foundation or an experienced pianist aiming to refine your skills, The Keys Coach has got you covered. We are launching very soon!

Follow us on 📷 Instagram

 

 

⭐️ Leave a Review

If you’re enjoying the podcast, please consider leaving a 5-star review on Apple Podcasts. Your feedback is greatly appreciated and helps support the show and grow our community. Thank you!

If you have any guest suggestions or would like to get in touch, you can do so by emailing adam@thekeyscoach.com - we reply to every email!

 

Hosted by Adam Saunders

Music - dcuttermusic.com

Rob Eckland is one of the busiest keys players and arrangers in the industry. He has played with everyone - Cher, Nile Rodgers, Kylie Minogue, Bryan Adams, Robbie Williams, Jess Glynne - the list goes on…!

In this episode, Adam chats to Rob about his early days, his work on TV shows like ‘The X Factor’ and ‘Britain’s Got Talent’, they talk about managing multiple projects, and Rob’s recent EP "Beyond The Lights." This interview is packed with so much excellent advice for anyone wanting to enter the industry.

 

In this episode you will learn:

• What it’s like to be a musical director for TV shows like Britains got Talent and the Masked Singer
• Why so much of the work Rob does now, can be traced back to one band
• The skills needed to be a session keys player and arranger
• Why there is so much more to being a musician, than just being good at music… and lots, lots more!

 

🔗 Connect with Rob

Rob’s Website

Instagram

Beyond The Lights

 

 

🎹 The Keys Coach

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Level up your piano playing with The Keys Coach! Join an awesome online community of like-minded musicians, access free expert content, and unleash your musical potential today!

Whether you're a beginner seeking a solid foundation or an experienced pianist aiming to refine your skills, The Keys Coach has got you covered.

Follow us on 📷 Instagram

 

 

⭐️ Leave a Review

If you’re enjoying the podcast, please consider leaving a 5-star review on Apple Podcasts. Your feedback is greatly appreciated and helps support the show and grow our community.

 

If you have any guest suggestions or would like to get in touch, you can do so by emailing adam@thekeyscoach.com - we reply to every email!

 

 

Hosted by Adam Saunders

Music - dcuttermusic.com

Welcome to the first bonus episode! These bonus episodes will feature special guests from the music industry.

 

UK Bassist Yolanda Charles MBE has been working as a session musician since 1990 starting her career playing for Jimmy Sommerville, Aztec Camera and Paul Weller.

 

During a career spanning the next 30 years, she worked with an eclectic mix of artists including, Robbie Williams, BB King, Eric Clapton, Roger Daltrey, Van Morrison, Mick Jagger, Anastasia, Sinead O’Connor, Daryl Hall, Musical Director for the Eurythmic’s Dave Stewart and TV houseband work with Jonathan Ross, Ricky Wilson (Kaiser Chiefs) & Nicole Scherzinger (Pussy Cat Dolls).

 

Yolanda’s more recent work includes performing live with composer Hans Zimmer and working on various film soundtracks including “A Knight’s Tale” “Alfie” “Home” “Boss Baby” I & II and most recently Dune. In 2020 Yolanda was a recipient of an MBE for services to music.

 

Yolanda is the leader of funk/RnB band – PROJECT PH and in this very special bonus episode, we explore what it takes to start and run your own band.

 

In this episode you will learn:

• How to start your own band
• The skills required to be an effective bandleader
• How Yolanda found the exact time in the day when she is most creative
• How Yolanda ended up singing a lead vocal on Hans Zimmer’s world tour
• Strategies to help you sing and play at the same time and lots, lots more!

 

🔗 Connect with Yolanda

Instagram

Project PH

Project PH at Ronnie Scott's

Talking and playing bass 🤯

Project PH Bandcamp

 

🎹 The Keys Coach

Join The Waitlist! 🚀

Level up your piano playing with The Keys Coach! Join an awesome online community of like-minded musicians, access free expert content, and unleash your musical potential today!

Whether you're a beginner seeking a solid foundation or an experienced pianist aiming to refine your skills, The Keys Coach has got you covered. We are launching very soon!

Follow us on 📷 Instagram

 

⭐️ Leave a Review

If you’re enjoying the podcast, please consider leaving a 5-star review on Apple Podcasts. Your feedback is greatly appreciated and helps support the show and grow our community. Thank you!

 

If you have any guest suggestions or would like to get in touch, you can do so by emailing adam@thekeyscoach.com - we reply to every email!

 

Hosted by Adam Saunders

Music - dcuttermusic.com

Tony Briscoe is a keys player, producer and composer. His music industry accomplishments include a range of UK chart successes with artists such as Craig David, Beverley Knight, and the Artful Dodger. He has also composed music for David Attenborough’s wildlife TV series Life in Cold Blood (Under The Skin).

Tony is also an app developer and has built ‘Chordio’ - a powerful composition and music theory tool.

 

In this episode you will learn:

• How learning keys was Tony’s portal into the music industry
• What it’s like to collaborate with Craig David, Mark Hill and Beverley Knight
• Whether Tony believes AI will change the music industry
• How anyone can get going with music production
• Why EVERY musician should learn piano… and lots, lots more!

 

🔗 Connect with Tony

Website

Tony Briscoe Recommends - Spotify Playlist Link

Chordio

 

🎹 The Keys Coach

Join The Waitlist! 🚀

Level up your piano playing with The Keys Coach! Join an awesome online community of like-minded musicians, access free expert content, and unleash your musical potential today!

Whether you're a beginner seeking a solid foundation or an experienced pianist aiming to refine your skills, The Keys Coach has got you covered. We are launching very soon!

Follow us on 📷 Instagram

 

⭐️ Leave a Review

If you’re enjoying the podcast, please consider leaving a 5-star review on Apple Podcasts. Your feedback is greatly appreciated and helps support the show and grow our community. Thank you!

 

If you have any guest suggestions or would like to get in touch, you can do so by emailing adam@thekeyscoach.com - we reply to every email!

 

Hosted by Adam Saunders

Music - dcuttermusic.com

Mitch Jones is a Grammy Nominated Musical Director, Keys Player, Songwriter and Producer. He has played with artists like Jessie Ware, Ed Sheeran, Mahalia, Moss Kena and Tom Misch. As a co-writer, he’s worked with artists like Asha Gold, Sophie and the Giants, Purple Disco Machine and Gabrielle Aplin.

 

In this episode you will learn:

• How to be an MD & Keys player for an artist like Jessie Ware
• Why being able to play with a click track is one of the most important skills for a musician to learn
• How Mitch approaches co-writing with new artists and bands

• Mitch’s approach to putting together a live show and how he is constantly evolving his production process.

 

🔗 Connect with Mitch

📷 Instagram

 

 

🎹 The Keys Coach

Join The Waitlist! 🚀

Level up your piano playing with The Keys Coach! Join an awesome online community of like-minded musicians, access free expert content, and unleash your musical potential today!

Whether you're a beginner seeking a solid foundation or an experienced pianist aiming to refine your skills, The Keys Coach has got you covered.

Follow us on 📷 Instagram

 

 

⭐️ Leave a Review

If you’re enjoying the podcast, please consider leaving a 5-star review on Apple Podcasts. Your feedback is greatly appreciated and helps support the show and grow our community.

 

If you have any guest suggestions or would like to get in touch, you can do so by emailing adam@thekeyscoach.com - we reply to every email!

 

 

Hosted by Adam Saunders

Music - dcuttermusic.com

Paola Vera is a singer, pianist and songwriter whose music blends her passion for jazz with a modern edge. Her influences include Stevie Wonder, Jill Scott, James Taylor, and Nat King Cole. Paola is a highly sought-after, experienced performer, composer, music educator, and vocal coach. In this episode you will learn: •How to get better at singing whilst playing piano •Why piano bar gigs can be SO useful to get your skills together •New ways to approach writing a song •How Paola set up the ‘International Singing and Songwriting Retreat’… and lots, lots more!   🔗 Connect with Paola Instagram Website Singing and Songwriting Retreat   🎹 The Keys Coach Join The Waitlist! 🚀 Level up your piano playing with The Keys Coach! Join an awesome online community of like-minded musicians, access free expert content, and unleash your musical potential today! Whether you're a beginner seeking a solid foundation or an experienced pianist aiming to refine your skills, The Keys Coach has got you covered. Follow us on 📷 Instagram   ⭐️ Leave a Review If you’re enjoying the podcast, please consider leaving a 5-star review on Apple Podcasts. Your feedback is greatly appreciated and helps support the show and grow our community.   If you have any guest suggestions or would like to get in touch, you can do so by emailing adam@thekeyscoach.com - we reply to every email!   Hosted by Adam Saunders Music - dcuttermusic.com

Phil Peskett is a piano, keys and synth player who has performed with Moloko, Nik Kershaw, and the Cinematic Orchestra amongst many others! Phil plays in the House Band for Soul Family Sundays at Ronnie Scott’s - one of the best music nights in London!

 

🔗 CONNECT WITH PHIL

Practice Room YouTube Tutorial

Roland Juno 106 In Depth. Every Parameter Explored.

See Phil playing live in Nik Kershaw’s band

Soul Family Sundays at Ronnie Scott’s

 

🎹 THE KEYS COACH

Follow us on 📷 Instagram

 

⭐️ LEAVE A REVIEW

If you’re enjoying the podcast, please consider leaving a 5-star review on Apple Podcasts. Your feedback is greatly appreciated and helps support the show and grow our community.

 

Hosted by Adam Saunders

Music - dcuttermusic.com

Welcome to The Keys Coach Podcast, where renowned piano, keys, and synth players share their journey in music!

Whether you're a beginner, a seasoned pro, or simply a fan of great music, join keys player Adam Saunders, as he dives deep into fascinating conversations with these extraordinary guests.

 

JOIN THE WAITLIST 🚀

 

Music - dcuttermusic.com

Howard Lawrence is an incredible songwriter, producer, singer, keys player, and bass player. He is one-half of the amazing electronic music duo, Disclosure.

Disclosure are one of the biggest bands in electronic music, having collaborated with artists such as Sam Smith, Kelis, Gregory Porter, The Weeknd, and Nao, to name just a few! Their latest album Alchemy was released in July 2023.

 

In this episode Adam and Howard chat about:

• Whether you actually need to know music theory...
• How you can ‘tweak’ chords using Midi
• How Howard got started playing by ear
• Howard’s go-to albums for incredible backing vocals
• They also answer YOUR questions - plus lots, lots more!

 

Howard’s Instagram

Disclosure’s Instagram

Disclosure on Spotfiy

 

YouTube Tutorial: The Ultimate Guide to Chord Charts

Follow the Keys Coach on Instagram

 

Hosted by Adam Saunders

Music - https://www.davidcuttermusic.com/

Nate Williams is a keys player, producer and multi-instrumentalist. He has performed with Jamiroquai, Joss Stone and Steve Winwood amongst many others. His latest EP, ‘Chapters’ was released in 2023 and features an incredible line-up of musicians.

 

In this episode, Adam and Nate chat about:

• Why tension and release are crucial
• The awesomeness of plagal cadences
• Why Nate doesn’t care if a chord doesn’t fit in the key
• Nate’s top tips for learning sound design
• Why Nate always gravitates towards Upright Pianos over Grand Pianos
• The significance of developing a relationship with an acoustic piano, even for synth enthusiasts... plus lots, lots more!

 

Nate's Instagram

Chapters - Nate Williams

 

YouTube Tutorial: The Ultimate Guide to Chord Charts

Follow the Keys Coach on Instagram

 

Hosted by Adam Saunders

Music - https://www.davidcuttermusic.com/

Bryn Bliska is an LA-based keys player, composer, producer, and MD who frequently collaborates with artists & producers across many genres, including Jacob Collier, Karol G, Maggie Rogers, Olivia Rodrigo, Rozzi, Lawrence, Sofi Tukker, Jackson Wang, Tegan & Sara, YUNGBLUD, Ruth B., and ford.

 

In this episode, Bryn and Adam chat about:

• Why adding a ninth to a major chord is the ‘Secret Sauce’
• Bryn’s process for how to learn a large amount of repertoire when you’ve got a tour or gig coming up
• Why Bryn has to go into full ‘Octopus’ mode when playing in Jacob Collier’s band
• Why so often the best things that happen onstage are unplanned
• Plus a deep-dive breakdown of Bryn’s practice routine… and lots, lots more!

 

Follow Bryn on Instagram

Bryn's Website

 

YouTube Tutorial: How to Improvise with Chords on Piano (in 8 Steps!)

Follow the Keys Coach on Instagram

 

Hosted by Adam Saunders

Music - https://www.davidcuttermusic.com/

Dani McGinley is a keyboardist and vocalist with over 12 years of professional experience. Originally from London and now based in LA, she has worked with a wide range of artists, including chart-toppers such as MARINA, Daya, Rachel Platten, Sabrina Carpenter, Charli XCX, James Bay, and Bea Miller. She is currently on tour with Niall Horan.

 

In this episode, you will learn:

• Why the Korg Kronos is Dani’s go-to keyboard
• Why recording yourself can be a complete game changer for speeding up the learning process
• What Dani practices when she has a rare day off from touring
• PLUS we talk all things Keytar… and lots, lots more!

 

Dani’s Instagram

 

The Keys Coach YouTube Channel - 'Don't Practise Scales... Do This!'

Follow the Keys Coach on Instagram

 

Hosted by Adam Saunders

Music - https://www.davidcuttermusic.com/

In this episode, Adam sits down with singer, songwriter and pianist, Julian Velard, best known for his unique blend of music and comedy. Based in LA, Julian has a decade-long presence in the US music and comedy scenes and has also become a cult sensation in the UK and Europe. He has received notable accolades from The Guardian, Time Out London, and The Sunday Times which propelled him to a major label record deal.

Julian has toured internationally with Jamie Cullum, Paul Carrack, and Goldfrapp, and shared stages with comedians like Will Ferrell, Reggie Watts, and Paul Scheer. He served as the artist-in-residence at Joe’s Pub at the Public New Theatre in NYC, and his live show was recognized as one of the best by Broadway World.

 

In this episode, you will learn:

• The lessons Julian has learnt from performing in piano bars across the US and the world!
• Why understanding Music Theory helped unlock Julian’s songwriting
• Why Julian’s go-to process for learning a song is by reading the ‘songbooks’
• Why all the musical elements of a song, should be there to serve the lyric… and lots, lots more!

 

‘In The Middle of Something’ Kickstarter Campaign

 

The Keys Coach YouTube Channel - 'Don't Practise Scales... Do This!'

Follow the Keys Coach on Instagram

 

Hosted by Adam Saunders

Music - https://www.davidcuttermusic.com/

The Keys Coach Podcast is currently on a short-break, and gearing up for its return on Thursday 18th January with an incredible episode featuring the talented Singer-Songwriter, Julian Velard. See you then!

Dennis Hamm is a Los Angeles-based keys player with over 30 years of professional experience. Known for his virtuosic chops and incredible versatility, Dennis has toured and recorded with some of the biggest names in the music industry.

For the past decade, he’s been the keyboardist for Thundercat and the musical director for Alice Smith. He’s also played in over 50 countries with legendary artists like Louis Cole, Chris Cornell, Babyface, Kenny Loggins, Michael McDonald, Gino Vannelli, Alan Holdsworth, Larry Carlton, and many more.

Oh—and he was nominated for a Grammy for his performance on Simon Phillips’ Protocol 4.

 

In this episode, you’ll learn:

🎧 Why it’s so important to think like a producer when playing in a band 👂 What having "big ears" really means 🤚 How to develop rhythmic independence between your hands 🏟️ Why Thundercat doesn’t “tame down” the music for stadium gigs 🔄 Why Dennis thinks music theory should evolve with every new genre

Plus: a deep dive into emotion in music, root perception, and plenty of glorious geekery.