Lauren Carey Kevin: Mastering Music as an Adult - Our Creative of the Month!

During our youthful years, the allure of playing musical instruments often captivated us. Whether it was jamming in a band with friends or casually experimenting with a piano at a friend's house, the notion of making music intrigued us. However, as we transition into adulthood, the demands of everyday life often put our musical aspirations on hold, making us believe we're too old to start learning an instrument. In a world where the demands of adulthood often push our dreams into the realm of forgotten wishes, Lauren Carey Kevin, the creative force behind Piano Chill, challenges the notion that you can pick up a musical instrument at any age. Piano Chill Online is Lauren's brainchild—a relaxed and flexible way for adult beginners to enjoy playing the piano. The program offers a super chill mix of classical, film, jazz, pop, and more. Lauren's affair with music began as a childhood yearning, her fascination ignited at the tender age of five. Raised in a musical environment, her home echoed with the serenade of piano keys, her parents fostering an early love for music. "I was fortunate to experience a lot of music early on," Lauren states. "I loved going to community music classes with my mum and singing while my dad played the piano at home." It was within these harmonious childhood moments that the seeds of her future were sown. However, it was years later when a former schoolmate returned to the auditorium and played the piano that Lauren started to consider pursuing her passion. "I vividly recall that moment," Lauren said. "It was so inspiring to see someone closer to my age performing, and it showed me what was possible." This transformative encounter set her on the path she had always dreamed of. As she reminisces about her musical journey, Lauren paints a vivid picture of her formative years, soaked in the soothing sounds of piano keys. "I loved music itself, but it was also the people I met through music who I think really made an impact and kept me on this path," she reflects, emphasising the profound influence of her gentle and patient music mentors. Amidst attending community concerts and orchestral performances, her purpose crystallised—music would be her calling. This revelation marked the dawn of her journey as she set her sights on a career as a musician. Eventually, she found her way to study the piano post-high school. However, after teaching music for a while, she started to realise there was a big disconnect between adults and children learning to play the piano. She recollects, "I was aware that there weren't too many programs aimed specifically at adults. Often, teaching methods are adapted from what we do with younger learners. Learning the piano as an adult can feel really different, so I wanted to honor that and decided to commit to creating an individual program for every student." Piano Chill was then born. In the vast landscape of traditional piano learning programs, Piano Chill stands as a beacon of flexibility and adaptability. As a student you connect online 2, 4, or 6 times a month for 45-minute one-to-one sessions. Students commence with brief segments, gradually advancing to lengthier musical pieces or revisiting cherished favorites. Departing from conventional method books, Lauren designs exercises that harmonise with diverse musical backgrounds, nurturing a journey that proves both comforting and invigorating. Reflecting on her career, Lauren shares, "I've only recently come to realise the profound impact music has had on my life—especially during challenging times. For those who have a passion for music and seek moments of solace, I've discovered that learning to play can be profoundly meaningful." As Piano Chill expands with a YouTube series and group sessions, Lauren's vision of inclusivity and accessibility when it comes to learning the piano ensures that anyone who wants to learn can. Additionally, for students in Sydney’s Inner West, Lauren is exploring a hybrid option for those who'd like to blend online sessions with occasional in-person sessions—perhaps once per month. Watch this space for more updates! Learn more about Lauren and Piano Chill (now Piano Focus): Website: www.pianofocus.net