And through this new series, I hope to use my background in Psychology to break down and document every single thought process that shaped my own journey in preparing for this exam as a normal human being — not a child prodigy with 8 hours to spare.

If this type of content interests you, do consider liking, commenting, and subscribing.

This is work that I have spent my whole adult life researching, refining, and living through personally.

Today’s topic is: Mental Health and Tempo Choice. Let’s begin.

Like many adults working towards this level of piano playing, you may find yourself aspiring to perform everything perfectly from memory, from beginning to end, just like the competition winners you see on YouTube.

But sooner or later, you begin to realise just how unbelievably difficult that task truly is — especially as a working adult balancing responsibilities, work, and family.

And at some stage, you must learn to tell yourself:

“This performance is good enough for now.”

Do not let the perfectionist in you burn you out.

You can be strict with yourself. But you must also realise that it is unrealistic to play perfectly 24/7.

You are bound to make mistakes, and it is okay. After all, you are playing some of the most difficult works in music history.

You must remember: it is better to consistently play at 60% speed with good control than to risk burning out chasing perfection at 100% speed.

Because if you are burnt out, you will give up.

And Rule #1 is:

Do not give up.

Over the years of preparing for my Licentiate Piano Exam, I have made many discoveries and experimentation at the piano. I have looked through many piano pedagogy literature to help myself to be where i am today.

and in this new series, I wish to use my Psychology background to break down and document

every single thought process that I had thus far. Things that are not often talked enough about... for example You are not a child prodigy , you do not graduate from a conservatory, how exactly do you put together a 42mins programme at a high level? A common response is " Just practice.." but what exactly do you do moment to moment during practice?

This are some of the questions that i have spent considerable braincells to ponder about

and i wish to share some of my findings to democratize this process.

if you like this type of content, please do like , comment and subscribe. This is work that i have

spent my whole adult life researching. 

Debussy – Prelude “La fille aux cheveux de lin” (The Girl with the Flaxen Hair)

Claude Debussy’s Prelude “La fille aux cheveux de lin” is one of the most beloved pieces in the piano repertoire, widely featured in ABRSM Grade 8 (2025–2026) List B. Known for its simplicity, warmth, and expressive beauty, this piece is an excellent choice for students preparing for higher-level piano exams or refining their musical sensitivity.

A Gentle Introduction to Impressionist Piano Music

Composed by French composer Claude Debussy, this prelude is part of Préludes, Book I. Unlike many technically demanding pieces, La fille aux cheveux de lin focuses on tone control, phrasing, and musical expression rather than virtuosity.

For students taking piano lessons in Singapore, this piece provides an ideal opportunity to explore:

• Expressive melodic playing

• Voicing and balance between hands

• Pedalling control for tonal colour

• Sensitive phrasing and musical storytelling

Why This Piece Is Important for Piano Students

At the ABRSM Grade 8 level, students are expected to move beyond notes and rhythms into deeper musical interpretation. This piece trains essential skills such as:

• Producing a warm, singing tone

• Shaping long lyrical phrases

• Controlling dynamics with subtlety

• Developing artistic awareness

These are key foundations for students progressing towards advanced piano repertoire and diploma-level playing.

Musical Character and Interpretation

La fille aux cheveux de lin translates to “The Girl with the Flaxen Hair”, inspired by a pastoral poem. The music reflects a sense of calm, innocence, and natural beauty.

When learning this piece, students should aim to:

• Create a floating, relaxed sound

• Avoid harsh accents or overly heavy touch

• Maintain a steady, flowing tempo

• Use pedal carefully to enhance—not blur—the harmony

Learn This Piece at Herman Piano Studio

At Herman Piano Studio, we guide students through structured piano lessons for beginners to advanced levels, including ABRSM exam preparation.

If you are preparing for Grade 8 piano or looking to improve your interpretation skills, this piece is an excellent addition to your repertoire. Our lessons focus on:

• Clear technique and efficient practice methods

• Musical understanding and stylistic awareness

• Exam strategies for ABRSM success

Looking for Piano Lessons in Singapore?

Whether you are a parent searching for piano lessons for children, or a student preparing for exams, we provide personalised guidance to help you improve confidently.

👉 Contact Herman Piano Studio today to start your piano learning journey.