Tell me a little about who you are and what you do.
My name is Hayley Wilson, I am a singer/songwriter from Brisbane, Australia and in 2017 I released my debut album and since then I have been writing and preparing for my next release by traveling to Nashville and working with writers both in Australia and overseas.
What instrument have you usually used for songwriting?
Typically, I would use my guitar but I have found in recent times that I tend to sit at the piano and find patterns and voicings that I may not have heard if I just wrote on guitar.
Why did you choose to study piano?
The piano has always been my favorite instrument and yet I didn’t learn to play until my late teens/early twenties. I love a classic piano ballad and I think it’s such an emotive, colorful instrument.
What was the hardest thing about studying piano?
For me, the hardest part has been some of the theoretical work but Brenda’s teaching style really resonated with me and made it so simple for me to understand in a way that I never had before despite studying music all throughout school and afterward.
How has learning piano affected you as an artist? Has it changed how you write or perform?
Learning piano has completely changed my approach to being an artist and a songwriter. From learning piano, I have found myself wanting to dive deeper into my musicianship and it has made me want to perfect my craft in every possible aspect. It makes me appreciate the art so much more and being able to confidently play piano live for an audience is a real dream.
Why do you think singers/songwriters should learn piano?
Absolutely, because it’s another tool you have to express your idea and opens up so many doors in terms of creativity when it comes to writing a song. You’re not boxed into one instrument or one way of writing.
Would you recommend Brenda as a teacher? Why?
Heck yes! I have had piano teachers before Brenda and none of them helped me learn so quickly and efficiently as Brenda. She has a way of explaining things that just makes sense! She’s passionate about what she teaches and it really shows in the results you get from lessons. If it wasn’t for Brenda, my piano playing would be nowhere near where it is today and I’m so grateful to have found a teacher like her. She has helped me gain the knowledge and confidence in my piano playing to be able to perform in front of thousands of people and ignited my passion for piano.
Learn more about Hayley Wilson HERE.