Keys to The Workplace

It’s a pleasure to work with Coach House Pianos on a project to encourage workplaces to embrace the concept of providing music-making facilities for employees to take a break during their working day.

Many children have access to music-making whether in class music lessons or learning an instrument, so why not provide the same opportunity and benefits for adults? It’s not uncommon for companies to provide gyms and other sports facilities, so why not a space for music-making and learning?

There’s a wealth of literature showing the wellbeing benefits of active music-making at any level: whether it’s from the challenge of learning a new skill and sense of accomplishment, or the experience of combining different thinking processes which music-making requires. Not to mention the chance for self-expression.

The students that I teach in the workplace frequently express their appreciation of having this opportunity. Playing the piano requires complete focus and attention, so it really does help them to press “reset” and go back to their desk feeling refreshed. For some, it’s the highlight of their week. The company view it as a cost-effective investment in the wellbeing of their workforce, helping them to maintain a healthy work/life balance.

Last week Coach House Pianos, and I (ably assisted by my teaching colleague Rob Brockway) hosted a pilot workshop aimed at providing piano teachers with a chance to learn more about how they might get involved in this work. We’re looking forward to introducing them to companies with whom they can collaborate.