I've finally decided to take the plunge and do Grade 8 Piano.

I had lessons as a child and whilst at university so I am not self taught, but have not had a piano lessonsince 1991.

I teach Piano to Grade 5 and am very strict on technique. I also perform as a concert soprano, and having studied music to degree level, again am methodical over interpretation.

The question is should I teach myself (I got very frustrated with myself when I couln't follow my own advice for playing scales) or start having the occasional lesson.

I already know which pieces a) suit me and that I like.
They are the J S Bach , J C Bach and Liszt.

Is it my imagination are is the sylaabus easier than it was when I was in the sixth form 1985-87?

I have grade 8s in Singing and Oboe and have done the Aural tests before. As a singing teacher I am always sightreading music, so it is not as if there is lack of practice there.

Do I rely on my own inate self-critical attitude (honed after many years of private practice) or get lessons.

In exactly the same way that you can pass on magnificent technical tips to less experienced singers, so could a good piano teacher to you.

Along with techniques for mastering difficulties comes those for interpreting the music through the mechanism of the piano. A really good teacher can also suggest enhancements\extensions\alternatives to your existing interpretations based on that teacher's knowledge of the piano repertoire.

For anyone in your position, I recommend a couple of lessons on the exam repertoire with a really good teacher. Try one as soon as you feel a reasonable mastery of the material; you can then judge whether you gained enough to make more a worthwhile proposition.

Hope that helps

Steve

I AM WARNING YOU THIS ADVICE MAY BE WRONG!

My piano teacher once told me that one of her ex pupils came to her 10 years after he had stopped playing piano. I am not sure whether he studied music (i doubt it) as you have.

He played to her (my teacher) and she noted several baisic mistakes such as finger position, wrist position etc.

This man had been playing scince he had stopped lessons but it seems as if he had slowly slipped in bad habits. I suggest that you at least have a couple lesson or have a teacher review your technique and pieces before you enter the exam

I'm in a similar position with piano. I really want to do grade 8 but I'd be so much happier doing so with a teacher. And at this level you should be looking for someone who teaches at the highest level. Might charge more than the average, but would be well worth it. However good one's musical skills are, technique is something that should be learned from good teachers.

Thanks every one, Steve especially, this was the conclusion I was coming to any way.

I'll still carry on with my usual self-critical attitude, then fix up some lessons with a Piano Specialist to go through my programme with them.

Next question does anyone know any really decent piano teachers in the Cambridge/ Newmarket area that specialise in higher grades? I have a good friend who can help in this area, but whoever takes me on needs to understand where I come from.