The piano songs we wish we could play!

Our recent research into the songs the nation wished to be able to play on the piano revealed not only the top songs Bohemian Rhapsody by Queen (32%), Your Song by Elton John (24%) and Imagine by John Lennon (24%) taking the top spots but also the strong desire of over a third of respondents to be able to learn an instrument.

95% of the nation think that the piano is one of the nicest instruments to listen to and is reflected in the 60% increase Trinity has had in piano exam enrolments since the pandemic.

Whether someone is a seasoned musician or a budding enthusiast, our study highlights the enduring love for music across all ages and backgrounds revealing that of those who took part four in ten (42%) admitting they love listening and playing music, spending as many as 15 hours a week listening to it. Over half (53%) say they would love to learn to play the piano, while 47% would like to be able to pick up a guitar and play a tune. Drums (21%), saxophone (14%), violin (10%) and harp (six percent) also make the list of the instruments Brits would love to play.

At Trinity we recognise and understand that learning an instrument is a personal journey and we are here to support that at every step. The study highlighted that people take up learning an instrument for many different reasons which is why we champion a flexible approach to musical education.

Repertoire only or technical pathway

Learners have the choice to sit our Digital Grades and Diploma exams taking either the repertoire-only or the traditional technical pathway, giving choice for people who may just want to enjoy performing pieces. This ensures that every learner can master their favourite pieces, pursue a learning path that best fits their needs, and achieve a recognised qualification in the process.

The songs you want to play

Our Digital Grades and Diplomas offer a wide-ranging repertoire, among the broadest in the field, tailored to accommodate all musical preferences, learning styles and contexts from Classical and Jazz to Rock and Pop and everything in between. All our newly launched repertoire now has no end date, they will only get bigger as we keep adding to them, ensuring there is always something for everyone!

Explore what we offer and see how musical potential can be unlocked. Read the full research findings here and stay up to date with more news from Trinity here.

“As a leading examination board, we recognise the need to offer a range of methods for people to learn and develop a love of music. We understand that the pieces people want to learn to play are not just tunes; they are narratives that evoke emotions and memories.”

Dr Francesca Christmas, Director of Music, Trinity College London

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