but there is no “last 10%.” no one ever “finishes” this journey because the scope for improvement is infinite. as musicians we should never assume we’ll arrive at a destination, because there is no end point. and that’s on growth mindset. forever a student, forever learning.
That's not true. Some of the greatest players practice the least. You should be spending most of your time practicing using the score without actually playing.
I graduated from a conservatory not wanting to touch the piano ever again. I'm not sure when or if I will feel ready to play. My mental state is too negative; when I practice, all I see is darkness. I avoid talking about this with former colleagues and new friends because no one seems to understand. Thank you for this video. It was therapeutic for me.
I also had that kind of experience for some period of time. Talking helped me a lot. Hope you'll find your way with or without music. wish you all the best.
Sounds valid to me. I didn’t touch the violin for 10 years out of principle, the principle being rejecting what my mother did to me with regard to it. Cognitive behavioural therapy (that you can do to yourself from a book called Feeling good: the new mood therapy) may help. Or DBT which is basically the same with aspects to combat pitfalls of CBT. Alternatively you could pick up a new, different instrument just for no pressure fun.
Thank both you for this comment (because after years of performing and composing music I burnt out completely and thought that I’m no good for it at all) and Mariam - this video helped a lot and inspired me to continue studying ❤
Why not wanting to touch it ever again? Coz u played it too much/often in the conservatory? "When u love somethin and do it too much you end up sick of it" that kinda stuff?
@@herzaislad mental abuse, or toxic environments can do that too. also burnout. chances are somehow or another it wasn't a good environment for this person to thrive
I really appreciate and admire artists who let us see the world of an artist without feeling the need to pander to an audience that really isn't interested in art.
Usually with these sorts of musician vlogs there's an offputting sense of the grandiosity of a musician's lifestyle. But you've portrayed it quite humbly and realistically, while retaining artfullness. I'm left wanting more.
I fell in love with piano at 13, but as life got more and more complex and difficult, my love for it turned into resentment. I ended up going to college for music, in my second year now. It's been hard rebuilding that once childlike wonder and enamor it used to have. But this video sparked something in me I haven't felt in a very long time. Thank you so much
The youtube ad on your finger practice made me laugh. The dedication is real! Mad respect. I've never tried a marathon session for practicing but you've made me want to try
This video resonated with me in a lot of ways. It showed the life of an artist striving for greatness and mastery of their craft in a real way. The life of an artist is often romanticized and glamorized, leaving many to take it as such and do art for the things it brings rather than the pure love and advancement of their craft. However, this video shows the reality of what it takes to be a great artist. It encourages dedication, passion, hard-work, practice, and study by exploring the idea of getting lost in your work and finding the beauty in that. I’m glad to have come across this video because it lets me know that I’m on the right path and not alone in my pursuit of mastery, truth, and creativity. Yes, it’s hard but there’s a beauty in the process and life is all about finding that beauty and keeping on. Thank You Mariam 🙏🏿
I love the little snippet you provided regarding childhood. That we literally played and focused on things that gave us joy. As a toddler teacher, I hope to get back to that!
This was one of the only vlogs that’s genuinely inspired me and that I can actually gel with on a personal level. I’m no longer a musician hyper fixated on becoming the greatest performer as I found my path through another avenue of music but your portrayal of the process of becoming the music instead of just playing the music was really inspiring to me, was a great watch during breakfast. I love the way you handled the video in general, that sound bite from what sounded like a documentary is something I’ve never heard done on UA-cam in the way you used it and the video as a whole was super pleasant to watch. Subscribed!
i have been recommended this video as i was listening to Chopin’s Nocturnes on here, what a discovery. Your whole aura just screams artistic deepness. I just subbed. Great video, and also thanks for the tips :)
Hi ! I am student from the Conservatoire de Musique et d'Art dramatique de Montréal, and i want to thank you for this inspiring vlog. It's always good to see that their are others who do 12 hours a day with fun and productivity. Hope your concerts are going well !
This made me tear up so much. I’m just learning how to play the drums and read music (specifically jazz drumming). I’m 18 and I thought I wanted to go to college for design because I’ve been an illustrator since I was little. I’m realizing that it doesn’t make me as happy as I thought it had my whole life, and playing music is really what is fulfilling for me. I used to play percussion in middle school band and I really loved it, but I stopped in high school. I’ve been panicking recently filling out my college application, and applying to a music school at this point may be too late and I don’t know if I would enjoy it. It’s all so overwhelming :(.. but I wanted to thank you for this video! Its so inspiring to me and I hope I can figure it out soon. ❤
This kind of dedication and willingness to sacrifice your everything to the art of music is exactly the reason for why I never managed to achieve the shift from advanced to professional, but opted for a different career instead. Your playing is truly mesmerising.
My favorite UA-camr recently. I am a pianist too, and a psychologist. Thank you so much for sharing these beautiful videos and your work. You are so talented! And these videos add a sense of calmness and peace to my days.
Woah, I was recommended this video out of the blue. The way you edited this together made it very artistic in a way. The shots themselves are so atmospheric themselves, too. I often feel like I don't have time to practise, and sometimes when I do I feel demotivated to do so, but it's really great to see how you handle this.
What a lovely poetic way of filming. I wasn't expecting that when this came up in my recommendations. Liked and subscribed. Greetings from a church organist in The Netherlands.
So beautiful and inspiring. Can you do a video about your study method and how you organize your practice? It would be very helpful because on UA-cam you normally find a lot of study tips for “normal” studying but not for “musical” studying
This video is so incredibly peaceful, I enjoyed it a lot. Right after my parents expressing to me their concerns about me going to study both computer science and *philosophy* (the horror!), and telling me that "life isn't a picnic" (as if I don't know, after having to finish high school on Zoom), this makes me feel the divide between these two worlds. I think I will need the divide, more than needing to have a preference.
I don’t practice much except in the summer but just a reminder to take care of your body! I got tendinitis and other problems so many times so make sure to not overuse your wrist! (I mostly got it from violin but I have also hurt myself when playing piano.) I know pianists who had to quit piano from injuring themselves by overplaying so if you ever are in great pain, take a break, relax and massage your hands and wrists, I’m not a doctor but be careful!
i wish i could do this. just practice classical guitar all day. but i have to work, and study so that i can try to get out my awful country. but still, the couple hours a day that i get to practice is magical and therapeutic, as you said.
Just found out about your channel. Im in love with your unpretentious and humble way while working hard. It for sure is the best way to radiate and express the beauty in those pieces. Keep it up!
If you start making videos again, I'll honestly watch every single one. I just bought my first piano a month ago, pretty excited to keep learning and progressing.
I’ve just finished a piano recital for my exams feeling so overwhelmed by practice and pressure of improving through it but you relating it back to getting wonderfully lost in toys and imagination as a child really hit me. Thank you so much for posting this it’s changed my perspective of the kind of path I want to continue on with my music ❤
It's so hard to set aside everything around you today. Your 7-minute video has helped me to just sit and enjoy the process for a couple of hours. Thanks!
Currently taking a break from working on music and this video popped up, and I must say Im extremely thankful I saw this. I’ve been really struggling lately with my creativity and mental health, but this felt like a reminder of why I do this in the first place: for the pure love of music. Thank you for making this video, Im sure many other people are just as thankful too! Best of luck on your own journey in life & music!
Wow! I didn't know I needed this video. I've been quite depressed lately in my studies and now I just want to run to the piano and play. Thank you for this amazing video! Beautifully played btw. 🥰
2:44 - wow there is something in either the song, or the musician that struck me. Possibly it is the flow-state of the musician that can hit the listener in such a deep place, but it actually made me feel emotional Whatever you are doing, keep doing it 🙏🏼
I don't dare to practice too much as a novice pianist because I don't want RSI. I am not yet able to play completely without tension. It is slowly getting better but I still have a long way to go.
I'm glad to have stumbled across this video. I've filled my life with music these past few years, but now I have to focus on some important for my future upcoming exams and I've had to let it go. I found this video sweet and nostalgic, and I'm looking forward to a time, in about a year or so where I'll be able to have my mind in music again.
Thanks for sharing your methods for practicing. some people , including me, learn the whole piece before they perfect it. You perfect the beginning before you move on. Im glad i watched and learned something. Good luck on your journey!
I'm a little late to the party but I just wanna really say as a teen musician(15) trying to take music super seriously(Classical+jazzGuitar), I really love this video. I've been trying to find a video like this which captures the beauty of the work of music. If I play a piece for a friend they usually say "Wow you made it look so easy", but with the video is really shows people how much practice and dedication it takes. So thanks for this incredibly made video and you play so beautifully! Zandy:)
Got a new sub! Your life feels so extraordinary and unique, it’s cool to see someone else’s pov of life in a world that I’m completely oblivious to. Good luck with everything and your adventures, hope you continue to post
A lovely way to begin my day in the predawn wilderness out West. I was a touring musician in my 20s (R&R guitar). Walked away in my early 30s. I'm retired now, living alone. I have recommitted myself completely to my instrument. It's such an intimate venture. You have captured it beautifully. Very inspiring. Thank you.
I recently started taking piano lessons , so im rly just at the beginning of this journey. This vid makes wanna dive deep into this rabbit hole and forget abt everything else. Tysm for sharing this
this video is such a nice motivation for me. i am a young pianist and i go to music high school but with the end of the year aproaching i started having really bad mental breakdowns and doubting myself on this journey, but videos like these really show me that i just need to bond with my passion for music and not just play to pass my exams
I really struggle to find the words to describe how much this motivated me. Suffice it to say: “a lot.” Thank you so much Mariam! I am very grateful. I needed the boost. Like Sisyphus with his boulder; happiness is most reliably found when we are contending against a great challenge in our lives. Your video inspired me to keep pushing mine (which happens to be unusually heavy - but all the more rewarding for it) up its hill. Sending love.
Very cool insight into your approach, and shows how isolating practice really is. I'd be doing well these days if I even got 1 hour in, but I remember what it's like to play 4-5 hours a day and fair play for having the stamina.
Thank you for putting such intention and heart into this video. Knowing you did this on top of the dedication to your practice is inspiring, and your playing sounds so alive! Well done!
clicked on the video just to make a twoset joke about 12 hours not being enough and you needing 40 hours lol but i didn't expect to love this video so much. i miss playing piano. we had one at the house i grew up in but now i live in a small apartment and can't afford one yet. however, i do still get to play flute and guitar. i totally get what you mean about it being therapeutic. i find so much joy in playing for hours at a time (although i don't do it as often as i wish i did). it's hard for me to stop once i start playing. it does feel very similar to being engaged in creative play as a child. going to stop rambling now and go play my flute :) thanks for inspiring me to play, and i subscribed to your channel!
I’m a double bassist, I’ve been playing for a year and I’ll be off to either Jacobs school of music or Jordan college of arts next year. I believe that not having a more isolated place to sink myself into my craft is holding me back. I’m ready to have practice rooms available to get closer with my art.
This is like the relaxing version of the movie whiplash. I only ever pick up instrument and go ooga booga slap hands hear sound so it's quite lovely to see this kind of effort.
Awesome. I can relate. My pr is 22h a day, but I'm a guitarist. It is 5am in Finland and I've already practiced 2h today. Neoclassical, progressive, jazz, fusion
Thank you for the practice advice. Also, you expressing your feelings about the music was very inspirational. Be happy, healthy, safe and have peace of mind.
Thank you so much for sharing this, I am that phase where i need to see others doing as hard as I want to. Watching this video makes me think that somewhere, there is that person that you will see in a different context which doesn't make you understand what she or he has passed to be so good at something. Maybe we all just need to be in a place where we just feel that what we want to do, is an happy and good must. Keep it up, you inspired me (if you could know me, it is not that easy to be convincing as you did).
tu sm. that’s what I FEEL I need to do, but with ableton. Creating music also brings me immense joy and meditative state, makes me profoundly happy. I needed the example of a real person proving that it’s possible for a human being to do it so many hours straight and still enjoy it. Thank you and good luck with ur performances/exams ❤
I think UA-cam recommended this to me for a reason, I'm just beginning a long period of musical study myself after leaving it dormant for a long time. But your passion compared to mine is simply humbling. To practice one piece over and over and over in such a determined fashion is remarkable. But I deeply relate to your ideas on creativity; when it's just you and the music it will stretch you and take you to new places if you learn to really just listen.
Hey, very nice video, Just got it on my recommended feed… thanks UA-cam! When one listens to old recordings, they definitely give that absolute magnificent sense of intimacy and they end up playing the role of something akin to a time machine. And it is, in the truest of ways.
Beautiful video! I think the act of practicing any artistic skill in a sort of marathon, for hours on end, gives a huge dopamine boost, when you realise how much you can actually do in one day, how you can actually concentrate and stay in that flow, connected only to the act of creation itself. I played the piano for several years, now I only do it every once in a while for enjoyment, but I do those 10-hour, 12-hour marathons when I write or paint and I think it is a similar sensation. Going through rough times, heavy emotions, it has saved me, literally, writing for hours and hours; it's my own sort of medicine. So beautiful to see people everywhere experiencing connection with art in many forms. We are little parts of something majestic, something greater than any pain.
I'm waking up sleepy too. I'm primarily a composer/jazz pianist but suddenly in my daze saw this post. I'm about to go see which of the on stage grands I want to use with my Quintet. Thanks for the further inspiration. At your age I'm 64 I put myself through a heavy consistent practice regimen. Now at this late stage I finally have the time and opportunity to do it again let's see.
I'm so happy to see this video. I'm only an amateur pianist, but I arrived so in advance that for me is really difficult to have time even only to maintain the right tecnique. Because of my actual work (I'm doing a PhD in stem, so is difficult to have time to think on other things apart from science). Seeing video like yours can be really motivating. I try watching and listening videos and recordings to myself, and it is really a thing that make the difference. To visualize and imagine is probably the most important part in the art. And weirdly I can see the difference in playing even without so much training, because the brain is so powerful to analyze information and recreate them on the keyboard.
This really inspired me to stop being lazy lol. Seriously though, there is something so motivating with videos like this. I don’t feel envy, jealousy, or any of those other nasty things just appreciation and admiration for people like you who can have this much dedication.
That’s such a healthy way of working hard. Like, as an artist I will literally have days where I’m just like… drawing, making pictures. I feel like I’m an eye with legs. Singing too… but never as long. It’s the closest thing to the human spirit itself. So.. it’s too concentrated to last long.
You are to be commended, you are very dedicated to your craft. It takes a lot of patience and love of music to spend so many hours in the practice room. Thank you for sharing your experience, you are very inspiring!
I just wanted to say I have an exam which I've been trying to prepare for since last June, and because of other commitments and lack of focus I couldn't do it. But now I feel like what I couldn't do in 11 months I got in 2 days. It's not perfect, but in a few days I'll get there. I really have to thank you, without you, I couldn't have progressed at all. I feel like I've gotten back to how passionate I was about music in lockdown. So thank you so much, you helped me get my life back together.
This video gave me the motivation to study 14+ hours a day, for three months for my 2nd year Medical school exams. And I topped amongst ten colleges. Thank you Mariam. You're a true salvation ❤
hello, i don't ever comment on videos but this one moved me so. i used to be a dedicated pianist and violist but conservatory life destroyed me mentally and i gave up playing for a different artistic path. seeing your video made me realize how much i miss it and that i would give anything to practice 12 hours a day to feel the same exhiliarting rush of accomplishing something extremely difficult. if you're struggling right now, don't give up!! i regret it everyday. performace and perfection aren't everything.
I needed this message so much, you are adorable and I'm so sorry about your conservatoire experience. I totally get it, some of them are too conservative and even abusive sometimes, which is totally not okey. I hope you find your ikigai❤️ Thank you
I practice till my fingers automatically do the right moves. Then I forget what I practiced and start all over, but now the story is priority, not the technicality. It’s like my fingers become emotional translaters of what comes through my Soul.
Beautifully done video! Brava! I’m a full-time piano teacher now…truly a wonderful career. However, I miss the days when I could only focus on my practice.
Physical mastery is the accumulation of many repetitions of the following 1. fundamentals 2. patiently and gradually working your way up to your current capability 3. Go to 1 With a parallel glacial grind accumulating knowledge. I love being engrossed in both the process of physical mastery over my instrument, as well as the study, analysis, studying the life and times of the great composers. I miss the days that I could spend this much time, and hope for another time in the future I can spend this amount of time again.
I'm going through music school right now, and this has helped me a ton. Getting ready for a recital right now. 🎉❤ I have a quarter counting system now, which helps make repetitions easier to count. Good idea with the pencils! Great video!
thank you for making this video, as a pre-professional pianist this motivates me to try the small version of this, maybe 6 hours this weekend! Love the videos, good luck with all of your wonderful playing!
Mariam, I am an undergraduate piano student with a lot of blind spots in my learning process. I feel like I'm way behind my peers. I need to work hard, a lot, to get to the places I want to go in two or three years. I WANT to work hard. Your videos have inspired me, from the other side of the globe. Thank you for that.
I’m a writer and this showed me how to cocoon myself enough to finish a project. “Art as escapism” was really helpful too. I realized that I’m truly happiest when completely immersed in my work so it’s best to organize my life around that (when I’m not making money). Thank you for your work and the inspiration.
Wonderful breakdown of your practice. Thank you! Please do more videos so that piano learners like me will get insights into how professionals approach music. That snippet of you studying finger movement by watching slowed-down videos - is just outstanding. Also please talk about conservatory life. Very few get a chance to experience it. So people like me would like to know a thing or two.
The hardest thing about practicing on an advanced level is you're working so hard for that last 10% which is also the hardest to maintain.
Indeed
but there is no “last 10%.” no one ever “finishes” this journey because the scope for improvement is infinite. as musicians we should never assume we’ll arrive at a destination, because there is no end point. and that’s on growth mindset. forever a student, forever learning.
@@anju8376 the last 10 % to be in the top!
Of course the journey never ends.
That's not true. Some of the greatest players practice the least. You should be spending most of your time practicing using the score without actually playing.
@@jacktreeman6791 Who?
I graduated from a conservatory not wanting to touch the piano ever again. I'm not sure when or if I will feel ready to play. My mental state is too negative; when I practice, all I see is darkness. I avoid talking about this with former colleagues and new friends because no one seems to understand. Thank you for this video. It was therapeutic for me.
I also had that kind of experience for some period of time. Talking helped me a lot. Hope you'll find your way with or without music. wish you all the best.
Sounds valid to me. I didn’t touch the violin for 10 years out of principle, the principle being rejecting what my mother did to me with regard to it. Cognitive behavioural therapy (that you can do to yourself from a book called Feeling good: the new mood therapy) may help. Or DBT which is basically the same with aspects to combat pitfalls of CBT.
Alternatively you could pick up a new, different instrument just for no pressure fun.
Thank both you for this comment (because after years of performing and composing music I burnt out completely and thought that I’m no good for it at all) and Mariam - this video helped a lot and inspired me to continue studying ❤
Why not wanting to touch it ever again? Coz u played it too much/often in the conservatory? "When u love somethin and do it too much you end up sick of it" that kinda stuff?
@@herzaislad mental abuse, or toxic environments can do that too. also burnout. chances are somehow or another it wasn't a good environment for this person to thrive
I really appreciate and admire artists who let us see the world of an artist without feeling the need to pander to an audience that really isn't interested in art.
❤️
Exactly I agree
@@mariam_muchwow you're a great musician!! And nice yams!!! 🍑 @5:45, you knew what you were doing..😅
@@venusspacey9685 go rub one of man
I've never encountered with so many intellectual musicians with aspiration to get lost in music.
I'm 10000 times more motivated, Thank you!
I found you too!
❤
Thank you for sharing your art and this very beautiful part of the world!
Love❤🎼🎶🎵
#SaveSoil #ConsciousPlanet
Alfred Cortot déchire.
Usually with these sorts of musician vlogs there's an offputting sense of the grandiosity of a musician's lifestyle. But you've portrayed it quite humbly and realistically, while retaining artfullness. I'm left wanting more.
Thanks a lot for an honest review! I hope you'll like my future works too
They way you describe and depict practice is beautiful. Really makes me want to bust out my cello for a 3am practice sesh 😭
The way YOU understand makes me want to practice more
One of the most beautiful piano blogs on youtube. I wish you made more videos. Thousands of people need you
This comment means the world to me❤️
Agreed. All 3
Same! Your vlogs are therapeutic - especially for music students
I absolutely agree, i clicked the bell icon and am waiting!
I fell in love with piano at 13, but as life got more and more complex and difficult, my love for it turned into resentment. I ended up going to college for music, in my second year now. It's been hard rebuilding that once childlike wonder and enamor it used to have. But this video sparked something in me I haven't felt in a very long time. Thank you so much
Thank you for watching🫶
How’s it going?
The youtube ad on your finger practice made me laugh.
The dedication is real! Mad respect. I've never tried a marathon session for practicing but you've made me want to try
I love how you focus on the beauty of practice and not the rigour. It's very motivating and inspirational. Keep going!
This video resonated with me in a lot of ways. It showed the life of an artist striving for greatness and mastery of their craft in a real way. The life of an artist is often romanticized and glamorized, leaving many to take it as such and do art for the things it brings rather than the pure love and advancement of their craft. However, this video shows the reality of what it takes to be a great artist. It encourages dedication, passion, hard-work, practice, and study by exploring the idea of getting lost in your work and finding the beauty in that. I’m glad to have come across this video because it lets me know that I’m on the right path and not alone in my pursuit of mastery, truth, and creativity. Yes, it’s hard but there’s a beauty in the process and life is all about finding that beauty and keeping on. Thank You Mariam 🙏🏿
You have said everything any artist needs to hear, including me, to go through this tough path. Thank you for this huge motivation!
I love the little snippet you provided regarding childhood. That we literally played and focused on things that gave us joy. As a toddler teacher, I hope to get back to that!
awwww this is adorable, thank you for watching 💌
This was one of the only vlogs that’s genuinely inspired me and that I can actually gel with on a personal level. I’m no longer a musician hyper fixated on becoming the greatest performer as I found my path through another avenue of music but your portrayal of the process of becoming the music instead of just playing the music was really inspiring to me, was a great watch during breakfast. I love the way you handled the video in general, that sound bite from what sounded like a documentary is something I’ve never heard done on UA-cam in the way you used it and the video as a whole was super pleasant to watch. Subscribed!
Thank you for this adorable review!
i have been recommended this video as i was listening to Chopin’s Nocturnes on here, what a discovery. Your whole aura just screams artistic deepness. I just subbed. Great video, and also thanks for the tips :)
Melting❤️ These words mean so much!
Hi ! I am student from the Conservatoire de Musique et d'Art dramatique de Montréal, and i want to thank you for this inspiring vlog. It's always good to see that their are others who do 12 hours a day with fun and productivity. Hope your concerts are going well !
This made me tear up so much. I’m just learning how to play the drums and read music (specifically jazz drumming). I’m 18 and I thought I wanted to go to college for design because I’ve been an illustrator since I was little. I’m realizing that it doesn’t make me as happy as I thought it had my whole life, and playing music is really what is fulfilling for me. I used to play percussion in middle school band and I really loved it, but I stopped in high school. I’ve been panicking recently filling out my college application, and applying to a music school at this point may be too late and I don’t know if I would enjoy it. It’s all so overwhelming :(.. but I wanted to thank you for this video! Its so inspiring to me and I hope I can figure it out soon. ❤
Awww, thank you for watching and sharing your experience, hope you find your ikigai❤️
Literally me right now. I don't know whether to choose buisness or a creative path.
you're amazing. i had a period where i was practicing 7-8 hours, and i couldn't handle it. i was on the point of burning out. kudos to you.
This kind of dedication and willingness to sacrifice your everything to the art of music is exactly the reason for why I never managed to achieve the shift from advanced to professional, but opted for a different career instead.
Your playing is truly mesmerising.
Thank you so much 😭
My favorite UA-camr recently. I am a pianist too, and a psychologist. Thank you so much for sharing these beautiful videos and your work. You are so talented! And these videos add a sense of calmness and peace to my days.
A huge motivation for me🫶 Thanks a lot!
Woah, I was recommended this video out of the blue. The way you edited this together made it very artistic in a way. The shots themselves are so atmospheric themselves, too. I often feel like I don't have time to practise, and sometimes when I do I feel demotivated to do so, but it's really great to see how you handle this.
What a lovely poetic way of filming. I wasn't expecting that when this came up in my recommendations. Liked and subscribed. Greetings from a church organist in The Netherlands.
So beautiful and inspiring. Can you do a video about your study method and how you organize your practice? It would be very helpful because on UA-cam you normally find a lot of study tips for “normal” studying but not for “musical” studying
This video is so incredibly peaceful, I enjoyed it a lot. Right after my parents expressing to me their concerns about me going to study both computer science and *philosophy* (the horror!), and telling me that "life isn't a picnic" (as if I don't know, after having to finish high school on Zoom), this makes me feel the divide between these two worlds. I think I will need the divide, more than needing to have a preference.
Good luck sweetie
I don’t practice much except in the summer but just a reminder to take care of your body! I got tendinitis and other problems so many times so make sure to not overuse your wrist! (I mostly got it from violin but I have also hurt myself when playing piano.) I know pianists who had to quit piano from injuring themselves by overplaying so if you ever are in great pain, take a break, relax and massage your hands and wrists, I’m not a doctor but be careful!
Absolutely! I just made my last video about that topic
i wish i could do this. just practice classical guitar all day. but i have to work, and study so that i can try to get out my awful country. but still, the couple hours a day that i get to practice is magical and therapeutic, as you said.
Just found out about your channel. Im in love with your unpretentious and humble way while working hard. It for sure is the best way to radiate and express the beauty in those pieces. Keep it up!
Excellent English and good taste for listening to historical piano recordings. Thanks for showing the streets of Tbilisi, the city of my youth.
If you start making videos again, I'll honestly watch every single one. I just bought my first piano a month ago, pretty excited to keep learning and progressing.
I’ve just finished a piano recital for my exams feeling so overwhelmed by practice and pressure of improving through it but you relating it back to getting wonderfully lost in toys and imagination as a child really hit me. Thank you so much for posting this it’s changed my perspective of the kind of path I want to continue on with my music ❤
It's so hard to set aside everything around you today. Your 7-minute video has helped me to just sit and enjoy the process for a couple of hours. Thanks!
Currently taking a break from working on music and this video popped up, and I must say Im extremely thankful I saw this. I’ve been really struggling lately with my creativity and mental health, but this felt like a reminder of why I do this in the first place: for the pure love of music. Thank you for making this video, Im sure many other people are just as thankful too! Best of luck on your own journey in life & music!
Same as me too
There is something so inspiring seeing someone so dedicated and practicing their craft & passion passion with such intensity and drive
god this was so beautiful made me cry, i hope i get to play music every day for the rest of my life
😭😭❤️🫶
Wow! I didn't know I needed this video. I've been quite depressed lately in my studies and now I just want to run to the piano and play. Thank you for this amazing video! Beautifully played btw. 🥰
Wish you all the best
2:44 - wow there is something in either the song, or the musician that struck me.
Possibly it is the flow-state of the musician that can hit the listener in such a deep place, but it actually made me feel emotional
Whatever you are doing, keep doing it 🙏🏼
Thanks a lot❣️
I don't dare to practice too much as a novice pianist because I don't want RSI. I am not yet able to play completely without tension. It is slowly getting better but I still have a long way to go.
One of the most motivating videos not just in my practice for piano but in all things
🫶
I'm glad to have stumbled across this video. I've filled my life with music these past few years, but now I have to focus on some important for my future upcoming exams and I've had to let it go.
I found this video sweet and nostalgic, and I'm looking forward to a time, in about a year or so where I'll be able to have my mind in music again.
Thanks for sharing your methods for practicing. some people , including me, learn the whole piece before they perfect it. You perfect the beginning before you move on. Im glad i watched and learned something. Good luck on your journey!
I'm a little late to the party but I just wanna really say as a teen musician(15) trying to take music super seriously(Classical+jazzGuitar), I really love this video. I've been trying to find a video like this which captures the beauty of the work of music. If I play a piece for a friend they usually say "Wow you made it look so easy", but with the video is really shows people how much practice and dedication it takes. So thanks for this incredibly made video and you play so beautifully!
Zandy:)
❤️
Got a new sub! Your life feels so extraordinary and unique, it’s cool to see someone else’s pov of life in a world that I’m completely oblivious to. Good luck with everything and your adventures, hope you continue to post
A lovely way to begin my day in the predawn wilderness out West. I was a touring musician in my 20s (R&R guitar). Walked away in my early 30s. I'm retired now, living alone. I have recommitted myself completely to my instrument. It's such an intimate venture. You have captured it beautifully. Very inspiring. Thank you.
Thank you for understanding the idea
Where in the west? I’m another unretired in El Paso Texas.
We really need more of your content thank you so much for posting again, your videos showed me the life I really wanted to live
Thank you so much and good luck !
I recently started taking piano lessons , so im rly just at the beginning of this journey. This vid makes wanna dive deep into this rabbit hole and forget abt everything else. Tysm for sharing this
this video is such a nice motivation for me. i am a young pianist and i go to music high school but with the end of the year aproaching i started having really bad mental breakdowns and doubting myself on this journey, but videos like these really show me that i just need to bond with my passion for music and not just play to pass my exams
This almost made me cry! I had the same issues and I think, every great musician has that phase. Wish you the best and don't give up!
@@mariam_much Thank you! I won't😌
I really struggle to find the words to describe how much this motivated me. Suffice it to say: “a lot.” Thank you so much Mariam! I am very grateful. I needed the boost. Like Sisyphus with his boulder; happiness is most reliably found when we are contending against a great challenge in our lives. Your video inspired me to keep pushing mine (which happens to be unusually heavy - but all the more rewarding for it) up its hill. Sending love.
Sending love 🫶
I love this video so much, and you are a beautiful person for inspiring many musicians on their lifelong journey of art!
Thank you for your kindness
Very cool insight into your approach, and shows how isolating practice really is. I'd be doing well these days if I even got 1 hour in, but I remember what it's like to play 4-5 hours a day and fair play for having the stamina.
Thank you and yes,it is extremely isolating from the world, but also connects you to yourself. but finding balance in isolation is super hard
Thank you for putting such intention and heart into this video. Knowing you did this on top of the dedication to your practice is inspiring, and your playing sounds so alive! Well done!
clicked on the video just to make a twoset joke about 12 hours not being enough and you needing 40 hours lol but i didn't expect to love this video so much.
i miss playing piano. we had one at the house i grew up in but now i live in a small apartment and can't afford one yet. however, i do still get to play flute and guitar. i totally get what you mean about it being therapeutic. i find so much joy in playing for hours at a time (although i don't do it as often as i wish i did). it's hard for me to stop once i start playing. it does feel very similar to being engaged in creative play as a child.
going to stop rambling now and go play my flute :) thanks for inspiring me to play, and i subscribed to your channel!
Thank you so much, love that we have the same escapism technique 😁
I loved this video, not only the musical part (im a musician too) but the whole thing feels like a short movie its beautiful, keep it up
I deeply love the way you constructed this video- the concept is very interesting and gives a wonderfully round glimpse into your being as a musician
I’m a double bassist, I’ve been playing for a year and I’ll be off to either Jacobs school of music or Jordan college of arts next year. I believe that not having a more isolated place to sink myself into my craft is holding me back. I’m ready to have practice rooms available to get closer with my art.
This is like the relaxing version of the movie whiplash. I only ever pick up instrument and go ooga booga slap hands hear sound so it's quite lovely to see this kind of effort.
Awesome. I can relate.
My pr is 22h a day, but I'm a guitarist. It is 5am in Finland and I've already practiced 2h today.
Neoclassical, progressive, jazz, fusion
5:46 the taste of this editing is 🤌🏻 perfection very inspirational
Thank you for the practice advice. Also, you expressing your feelings about the music was very inspirational. Be happy, healthy, safe and have peace of mind.
Thank you so much for sharing this, I am that phase where i need to see others doing as hard as I want to. Watching this video makes me think that somewhere, there is that person that you will see in a different context which doesn't make you understand what she or he has passed to be so good at something. Maybe we all just need to be in a place where we just feel that what we want to do, is an happy and good must. Keep it up, you inspired me (if you could know me, it is not that easy to be convincing as you did).
Thank you so much luv and good luck!
This was really beautiful! Please continue making these type of videos. Hope that the competition/important event that is coming for you will go well!
Thank you!
that was very beautiful. it's rare to find anyone speaking so easily and deeply
The shot at 3:15 with the practicing in the background and the rainy scenery is so nice and serene
here having a hard time with finals and watching this inspired me to keep going, time to go continue practicing and getting projects done.
this was a rlly cool video and made me realize I’m not practicing nearly enough - thank you for helping me get there
tu sm. that’s what I FEEL I need to do, but with ableton. Creating music also brings me immense joy and meditative state, makes me profoundly happy. I needed the example of a real person proving that it’s possible for a human being to do it so many hours straight and still enjoy it. Thank you and good luck with ur performances/exams ❤
Thank you for your time and wish you all the best too❣️
I think UA-cam recommended this to me for a reason, I'm just beginning a long period of musical study myself after leaving it dormant for a long time. But your passion compared to mine is simply humbling. To practice one piece over and over and over in such a determined fashion is remarkable. But I deeply relate to your ideas on creativity; when it's just you and the music it will stretch you and take you to new places if you learn to really just listen.
This is absolutely perfect, a slice of raw, honest, unadultered life. Thanks for sharing, and sharing it so well.
Hey, very nice video, Just got it on my recommended feed… thanks UA-cam!
When one listens to old recordings, they definitely give that absolute magnificent sense of intimacy and they end up playing the role of something akin to a time machine. And it is, in the truest of ways.
Beautiful video! I think the act of practicing any artistic skill in a sort of marathon, for hours on end, gives a huge dopamine boost, when you realise how much you can actually do in one day, how you can actually concentrate and stay in that flow, connected only to the act of creation itself. I played the piano for several years, now I only do it every once in a while for enjoyment, but I do those 10-hour, 12-hour marathons when I write or paint and I think it is a similar sensation. Going through rough times, heavy emotions, it has saved me, literally, writing for hours and hours; it's my own sort of medicine. So beautiful to see people everywhere experiencing connection with art in many forms. We are little parts of something majestic, something greater than any pain.
I'm waking up sleepy too. I'm primarily a composer/jazz pianist but suddenly in my daze saw this post. I'm about to go see which of the on stage grands I want to use with my Quintet. Thanks for the further inspiration. At your age I'm 64 I put myself through a heavy consistent practice regimen. Now at this late stage I finally have the time and opportunity to do it again let's see.
Good luck !
I'm so happy to see this video. I'm only an amateur pianist, but I arrived so in advance that for me is really difficult to have time even only to maintain the right tecnique. Because of my actual work (I'm doing a PhD in stem, so is difficult to have time to think on other things apart from science). Seeing video like yours can be really motivating. I try watching and listening videos and recordings to myself, and it is really a thing that make the difference. To visualize and imagine is probably the most important part in the art. And weirdly I can see the difference in playing even without so much training, because the brain is so powerful to analyze information and recreate them on the keyboard.
This really inspired me to stop being lazy lol. Seriously though, there is something so motivating with videos like this. I don’t feel envy, jealousy, or any of those other nasty things just appreciation and admiration for people like you who can have this much dedication.
Thank you so much for watching♥️
aaaaaahrghhh i am already in love with you. your 3 videos are pure gems !
just found this channel. this was so pleasant and peacefully motivational. love the clips u used of ppl talking.
That’s such a healthy way of working hard. Like, as an artist I will literally have days where I’m just like… drawing, making pictures. I feel like I’m an eye with legs. Singing too… but never as long. It’s the closest thing to the human spirit itself. So.. it’s too concentrated to last long.
Love the section of playing along without the keys.just wow to watch your fingers
thats wonderful you are posting videos again! I always wonder what life must be like for a conservatory student! Thank you for the tips too!
You are to be commended, you are very dedicated to your craft. It takes a lot of patience and love of music to spend so many hours in the practice room. Thank you for sharing your experience, you are very inspiring!
Thank you so much for kind words and for watching❤️
I just wanted to say I have an exam which I've been trying to prepare for since last June, and because of other commitments and lack of focus I couldn't do it. But now I feel like what I couldn't do in 11 months I got in 2 days. It's not perfect, but in a few days I'll get there. I really have to thank you, without you, I couldn't have progressed at all. I feel like I've gotten back to how passionate I was about music in lockdown. So thank you so much, you helped me get my life back together.
This backlash gives me as much motivation as you got from me. Thank you ❤️
This video gave me the motivation to study 14+ hours a day, for three months for my 2nd year Medical school exams. And I topped amongst ten colleges. Thank you Mariam. You're a true salvation ❤
This gives me huge motivation also! Congratulations, I'm so proud that this video helped you in some way😭❤️Good luck!
hello, i don't ever comment on videos but this one moved me so. i used to be a dedicated pianist and violist but conservatory life destroyed me mentally and i gave up playing for a different artistic path. seeing your video made me realize how much i miss it and that i would give anything to practice 12 hours a day to feel the same exhiliarting rush of accomplishing something extremely difficult. if you're struggling right now, don't give up!! i regret it everyday. performace and perfection aren't everything.
I needed this message so much, you are adorable and I'm so sorry about your conservatoire experience. I totally get it, some of them are too conservative and even abusive sometimes, which is totally not okey. I hope you find your ikigai❤️
Thank you
Thanks so much for speaking the truth. If you want perfection, one has to dedicate ..... wishing you the very best!
I practice till my fingers automatically do the right moves. Then I forget what I practiced and start all over, but now the story is priority, not the technicality. It’s like my fingers become emotional translaters of what comes through my Soul.
Yes, absolutely💓 I also mentioned that in one of my videos
This video is so good, honestly. It's true and it feels authentic. Keep up the great work!!!
Beautifully done video! Brava! I’m a full-time piano teacher now…truly a wonderful career. However, I miss the days when I could only focus on my practice.
I just discovered your channel and after watching your videos, it gave me hope in my piano work. I subscribed to your channel and I say thank you.
Physical mastery is the accumulation of many repetitions of the following
1. fundamentals
2. patiently and gradually working your way up to your current capability
3. Go to 1
With a parallel glacial grind accumulating knowledge. I love being engrossed in both the process of physical mastery over my instrument, as well as the study, analysis, studying the life and times of the great composers.
I miss the days that I could spend this much time, and hope for another time in the future I can spend this amount of time again.
You're so motivating. I wish the best on your music journey! Please share with us.
Thank you so much! I will!
I'm going through music school right now, and this has helped me a ton. Getting ready for a recital right now. 🎉❤ I have a quarter counting system now, which helps make repetitions easier to count. Good idea with the pencils! Great video!
Good luck luv!
The moon shot is unbelievable. Beautiful video, pared down and insightful, thank you for sharing ❤ and thanks for the tips !
your playing is beautiful, so much passion
Thank you!
thank you for making this video, as a pre-professional pianist this motivates me to try the small version of this, maybe 6 hours this weekend! Love the videos, good luck with all of your wonderful playing!
Loved the filming! It gave me a sense of someone who really appreciates the good in life.
🫶🏻
Please more of this. Wonderful channel. 🥰💛
this might be one of the most inspirational videos I've ever seen
Mariam, I am an undergraduate piano student with a lot of blind spots in my learning process. I feel like I'm way behind my peers. I need to work hard, a lot, to get to the places I want to go in two or three years. I WANT to work hard. Your videos have inspired me, from the other side of the globe. Thank you for that.
Wish you the best luv
honestly thanks so much, I used this technique for practicing and was able to retain way more, way quicker than ever
This comment made me super happy! I'll show you more tips in next videos🫶
@@mariam_much appreciate it
I don't know why but I'm crying. Thank you for this video, wish you the best!
Wish you the best too luv
I’m a writer and this showed me how to cocoon myself enough to finish a project. “Art as escapism” was really helpful too. I realized that I’m truly happiest when completely immersed in my work so it’s best to organize my life around that (when I’m not making money). Thank you for your work and the inspiration.
Thank you and good luck❤️
What a dedication , i must say its admirable.. Keep it up !
Wonderful breakdown of your practice. Thank you! Please do more videos so that piano learners like me will get insights into how professionals approach music. That snippet of you studying finger movement by watching slowed-down videos - is just outstanding.
Also please talk about conservatory life. Very few get a chance to experience it. So people like me would like to know a thing or two.