Could Your Piano Skills Make You The Next Elton John?

Glastonbury is always a big feast of music, but this year brought one of the most poignant appearances in the festival’s history, as Sir Elton John played there for the first and only time,

In playing at the event, the legendary singer, songwriter and pianist was adding one more element to his performing CV before retirement, having declared his performing days in the UK are coming to an end. For many it was a sad moment, but also a chance to reflect on a golden career.

For any young pianist thinking of investing in a baby grand piano, it may also be a moment to reflect on just how much potential for success such an instrument offers.

In an age when many performers rely only on their voice - look at the leading performers in this year’s Eurovision as an example - Sir Elton has been a continual reminder that combining singing with tinkling on the ivory (except, of course, it isn’t ivory these days) is a route to superstardom that still works and can ensure an enduring career.

As Sir Elton puts his feet up at the age of 76, he can look back on a career that has lasted over 50 years, featuring 32 studio albums, ten number ones, and over 300 million record sales.

Proof of his longevity can also be found in the fact that his first number one was as long ago as 1976 when he performed Don’t Go Breaking My Heart with Kiki Dee, yet his last one came in 2021 when he performed Merry Christmas (2nd time) with Ed Sheeran.

It all goes to show that a great pianist will always have a following and their appeal will span generations. That can be taken as a sign that if you can perform with a baby grand piano and then move onto a larger one, you too could find your music never goes out of fashion.