Category: News

Plus new single ‘Drift’ is released today

A question that comes up from listeners fairly regularly for me is why are my piano pieces almost always short? Its true – there aren’t many that go over three minutes. One thing that has appealed to me about this approach is the challenge of trying to say a lot in a short time. You don’t necessarily need long, complicated compositions to create something that hits hard emotionally. A short piece can be just as powerful, if not more so, because it distils everything down to its essence.

When I sit down to write, I’m often focused on capturing a particular mood or feeling. It’s not about telling a whole story, but more like sharing a snapshot of a moment in time. For me, that’s what short piano pieces are all about: creating a little world in a few minutes.

Thanks for reading Steve Luck Music! Subscribe for free to receive new posts and support my work.Subscribed

Why I Love Writing Short Works

Short pieces let you focus on the small things – the shifts in dynamics, the subtle pauses, the way a single chord can change the whole mood of a piece. I find I can really dig into these details in short works. You don’t need a lot of notes to create something meaningful. I’ve always felt that some of the best emotions come from the smallest moments.

For example, Homecoming is a slightly faster piece than lots of my other work, but it still has a reflective feel. It’s about the journey home after time spent away – the sense of returning, of moving through familiar spaces with a mix of relief and thoughtfulness. It doesn’t need to be big or dramatic. It’s about that feeling of quiet movement, the anticipation of returning to a place you know, and yet it still has a lot to say in its few minutes. The piece captures both the energy of a journey and the calm of being home again. Watch the music video here.

The Challenge of Short Works

While short pieces offer a lot of emotional punch in a small package, they do have limitations. With fewer minutes to work with, there’s less room for the kind of development you might find in a longer piece. There’s no space for themes to really evolve and grow the way they can in a more expansive work. Every note has to earn its place, and there’s no room for filler. The themes often have to be succinct and to the point, which can make them feel more immediate, but also more contained.

That said, there’s something quite beautiful about that conciseness. Short works can pack a lot into a small space, and they don’t waste time. They’re about capturing a moment, not telling a story over a long span of time. It’s a different approach to music, but it’s one that I really enjoy.

Why Short Pieces Feel Personal

I’ve always felt a more personal connection to short pieces. When I write them, it’s like I’m sharing something small but meaningful, a quick thought or feeling that I don’t want to over-explain. It’s like giving a small gift – something simple, but it says everything I want to say at the time.

That’s also why I think they connect so well with people. They’re easy to take in, but they leave you with something. You don’t have to sit for hours to understand the music- it’s more like a fleeting moment that stays with you.

Short Piano Works in the Live Setting

I’ve played a lot of short pieces in concerts, and there’s something special about how they come across in a live setting. You can hear everything clearly – the quiet shifts, the pauses, the way the music breathes. I think that’s what I enjoy most when playing these pieces live – it’s about that personal connection, the small moments that draw people in.

During the Ouseburn Open Studios weekend, I’ll be playing a mix of short pieces in my studio, including Homecoming, and I’m always struck by how much people seem to appreciate the intimacy of these performances.

A New Release: Drift Is Out Today

Speaking of short pieces, I’ve just released a new one called Drift today. It’s another quiet, intimate piece that I think fits into this same idea of capturing a mood in a small space of time. It’s about letting things float and settle, like drifting through a moment of calm. If you’ve enjoyed pieces like Homecoming or Hidden, this one fits right in with that kind of feeling. You can listen to it now, wherever you stream music via this link https://hypeddit.com/steveluck/drift or watch the music video here https://youtu.be/sXIxTWPoOAM?si=t9Ct-oMX649jRXgC

The artwork for the single release is by long term collaborator Colin Hagan.

Thank you so much for your continued support – it really means a lot to me. If you’ve enjoyed this post, please consider liking, commenting, or sharing it with others. Your feedback helps me keep doing what I love, and sharing it helps me reach more people who might enjoy the music. I really appreciate you taking the time to read and listen.

Steve

---

PS: last minute tickets are still on sale for my concert in the Victoria Tunnel tonight Friday 14th March 2025 at 7.30pm from https://www.ticketsource.co.uk/steve-luck-music

PPS: If you’re in the area next weekend, I’ll be playing a couple of longer concerts with the brilliant Sergio Díaz De Rojas. We’ll be performing on Friday 21st March in my studio at 36 Lime Street https://www.ticketsource.co.uk/steve-luck-music and Saturday 22nd March at The Witham, Barnard Castle https://thewitham.org.uk/event/sergio-diaz-de-rojas/

I’ll also be performing short piano pieces throughout the Open Studios weekend in my studio – do come and say hello!

Find your dream piano, hear my latest track, and see where I’m playing next!

Hi everyone,

I hope this post finds you well! This month, I’ve got some exciting updates for you, including tips on buying a second-hand piano, 2025 live dates, a BBC Radio 3 feature for my track One Little Victory, and the exclusive premiere of my new release, Hidden, which comes out on Friday.

🎹 The Ultimate Piano Buyer’s Guide: How to Avoid Costly Mistakes and Find the Perfect Piano for Your Budget!

Thinking of buying a piano? It’s a big investment, and making the right choice can be daunting. Fortunately, Mark Goodwin, with over 20 years of experience in the piano trade, has shared his insider tips to help you avoid common pitfalls.

• Why “free” pianos could cost you thousands.
• The best buys between £500–£8000.
• Brands to avoid—and gems to look out for.

This guide will give you the confidence to find a piano you’ll cherish for years to come.
👉 Read the full guide here.

---

🎶 Live Dates for 2025

Tickets are already on sale for my upcoming concerts! Mark your calendars, and grab your seats early to take advantage of reduced price entry on studio (36 Lime Street) concerts.

• Friday 14th March, 7:30 PM – Victoria Tunnel, Newcastle
• Friday 21st March, 7:30 PM – 36 Lime Street, Newcastle (with Sergio Diaz De Rojos)
• Saturday 22nd March, 10AM – 5PM – 36 Lime Street, Newcastle (Ouseburn Spring Open Studios – free entry)
• Saturday 22nd March, 7:30 PM – The Witham, Barnard Castle (with Sergio Diaz De Rojos)
• Sunday 23rd March, 10AM – 5PM – 36 Lime Street, Newcastle (Ouseburn Spring Open Studios – free entry)
• Friday 11th April, 7:30 PM – 36 Lime Street, Newcastle (with Charlotte Butler)
• Friday 16th May, 6.30PM – 10.30PM – 36 Lime Street, Newcastle (The Late Shows – free entry)
• Friday 23rd May, 7:30 PM – 36 Lime Street, Newcastle (with Glacis)
• Friday 20th June, 7:30 PM – Victoria Tunnel, Newcastle
• Saturday 26th July, 7:30 PM – Yamaha Music School, Blyth (with Charlotte Butler)
• Friday 19th September, 7:30 PM – Victoria Tunnel, Newcastle
• Saturday 20th December, 7:30 PM – Victoria Tunnel, Newcastle

I’m delighted to be sharing my studio with some incredibly talented musicians in the first half of 2025. Sergio Díaz De Rojos is a Peruvian composer and pianist known for his heartfelt, minimalist pieces that transport listeners to quiet, introspective places. Charlotte Butler is a rising star in the modern classical world, captivating audiences with her ethereal compositions and expressive playing. Glacis, the project of Euan Millar-McMeeken, blends piano with delicate electronics, creating deeply moving and cinematic soundscapes. Collaborating with these amazing artists is a real privilege, and I can’t wait for you to experience their music in the intimate setting of my studio concerts.

👉 Book your tickets now.

---

🎧 BBC Radio 3: One Little Victory on Piano Focus

I’m thrilled to share that my track One Little Victory was featured on BBC Radio 3’s Unwind: Piano Focus. I’m chuffed to be on the same show as Bach, Haydn, Chopin and Brian Eno! If you missed it, you can still catch it on BBC Sounds until 21st February 2025.
🎶 Listen here.

---

🎥  Hidden out now

My new track Hidden came out last Friday – you can watch the video below!

Hidden draws inspiration from the idea of unseen emotions and subtle connections that lie beneath the surface. The piece evokes a sense of quiet reflection, inviting listeners to immerse themselves in a world of introspection.

I would love to know what you think – leave a comment below.

Thank you, as always, for your support. Whether you’re joining me at a concert, discovering new music, or exploring the piano world, I’m grateful to have you along for the journey.

Until next time,
Steve

🎶 Follow me on Spotify | Instagram | Tickets & Events

Why adaptability and continuous learning are key

I wrote this article and it was first published on the Musicians Union website in December 2024.

My career as a self-employed musician began in Newcastle, in 1990 after having successfully completed a music degree, which followed on from O level and A level music at school, and piano lessons which began at the age of 8. When I was a teenager, I became obsessed with music and in the absence of any other subject with a pull that matched the intensity of the passion I felt, I fell into, studying further and contemplating “doing something” in music as a possible future job. I thought it would be cool – and in lots of ways I was right, but the point of this article is to tell the truth about some of the highs and lows and less talked about aspects of a career in music. It is cool but it’s not easy.

Anyway, back to the story, I’m sure it’s a common question but in 1990 I was asking myself “What do you actually do if you have a music degree?”

Well, the answer began with enrolling onto the now infamous and for the time, radical, government funding programme for those wishing to become self-employed – the Enterprise Allowance Scheme. There are so many creative people of a similar age to me, I’m 54, who I have met who, like me, attribute the beginning of their careers to this visionary initiative (£40 per week over two years, almost no questions asked!) which bought time and space to dream and to plan and develop a business. I began teaching private piano lessons to some of the kids in the neighbourhood, something which I have loved doing and continue to do today. Between then and now I have also fulfilled the stereotype of building a ‘portfolio’ music career.

Roles over the years have included: private piano teacher, band member, songwriter, gig booker, band leader, wedding pianist, accompanist, session musician, college lecturer, recording engineer, studio owner, media composer (more than 150 projects writing for shorts, animations, feature films, TV projects and music libraries) gig promoter, producer, founder of a composer network and now self-releasing solo artist and founder and promoter of a concert series.

At all times during this period I have encountered challenges, any one of which could have led me to deciding that I would be better off jacking it in and ‘getting a proper job’. I must insert here that I have been very lucky and without the support of my family and friends and particularly the support I have received from my wife, my career, such as it is, would not have been possible. I am immensely grateful to all that have helped me out along the way.

Sustaining a long-term music career is far from easy, and the challenges that arise are as varied as they are daunting. It also true to say that these challenges never go away – even after 34 years they are still ever present. Financial instability is a constant companion, especially in the early years when income from gigs, teaching, or projects can be sporadic at best. The fear of creative burnout looms large, as the pressure to continuously produce new work can drain the very passion that drew you to music in the first place. Rejection and criticism are unavoidable, whether it’s a gig that doesn’t materialize, a submission that gets turned down, or a scathing review that cuts deep. The competition is fierce, with countless talented individuals all vying for the same opportunities, making it difficult to stand out and secure steady work.

And then there’s the challenge of keeping pace with evolving technology. The rapid changes in music software, distribution platforms, and social media can feel overwhelming, requiring constant learning just to stay relevant. This, coupled with the physical and mental toll of the job—long hours, irregular schedules, and the risk of injury from repetitive strain—can push both your body and mind to their limits. The industry itself is unpredictable, with shifts in musical trends and market demands often rendering once-popular skills or styles obsolete, forcing you to adapt or risk being left behind. Balancing this demanding career with a personal life adds another layer of difficulty, as the irregular hours and frequent travel can strain relationships and lead to a work-life imbalance. And amidst all this, the task of building and maintaining a professional network is crucial but challenging. The reality is that uncertainty is part and parcel of the job, and learning to live with that uncertainty is key to long-term survival.

At the start no-one tells you about the skills and qualities that will be essential. These skills and qualities tend to only make themselves known to you once you say yes to a project. You might think that being good enough on your instrument is all that should be required. But this is just the beginning. No-one mentioned to me that I would need to know about CC midi automation set up in Cubase or the difference between ad sets and ads in Facebook advertising or the dedication needed to learn about video editing, making meaningful use of the stats on Spotify for Artists or copywriting to optimise the marketing and promotion of gig. Ancillary skills and the willingness to develop them are essential for sustaining a career.

From my experience there are number of qualities that are needed at different times. This is not meant to be an exhaustive list but for most people these may include…

1. Passion: A deep love for music and creativity that fuels your dedication to continually improve and explore new avenues in your career.

2. Resilience: The ability to bounce back from setbacks, whether it’s a challenging project, a tough gig, or the ups and downs of the music industry.

3. Perseverance: Sticking with your goals and projects, even when things get tough, and consistently putting in the work to achieve long-term success.

4. Flexibility: Being adaptable to change, whether it’s shifting musical trends, new technologies, or different roles and responsibilities in your career.

5. Curiosity: A willingness to learn and explore new ideas, genres, and technologies, keeping your work fresh and relevant.

6. Creativity: The ability to think outside the box, finding unique solutions to problems and bringing original ideas to your compositions, performances, and projects.

7. Empathy: Understanding and relating to others, whether it’s students, collaborators, or audiences, which helps in teaching, leading, and creating meaningful music.

8. Self-Motivation: The drive to set and achieve your own goals, especially when working independently as a solo artist, composer, or business owner.

9. Patience: Taking the time to develop your craft, build relationships, and navigate the often-slow-moving aspects of the industry.

10. Vision: A clear sense of direction and purpose in your career, allowing you to make strategic decisions and keep moving forward in your creative and professional journey.

Amidst the challenges, there is immense joy in a music career. The pure thrill of creative expression – bringing your ideas to life and sharing emotions through music – is unparalleled. There’s a deep satisfaction in connecting with audiences during live performances, feeling their energy, and knowing your music resonates with them. Collaborating with other musicians brings a unique pleasure, as you share ideas and create something special together. The camaraderie of the band environment is unique and has led to lifelong friendships. The fulfilment of pursuing your passion and witnessing your hard work come to fruition is profoundly rewarding. And, of course, the excitement of lifelong learning, as you continue to explore new skills and genres, keeps the journey fresh and invigorating.

In reflecting on my journey, it’s clear that a music career requires far more than just musical talent. It demands a blend of resilience, adaptability, and continuous learning, coupled with a deep-seated passion for the craft. The path is not always straightforward, and the challenges can be numerous, but with the right skills, qualities, and support, it can be possible to carve out a fulfilling and sustainable career in music. It’s a journey of constant growth, where every experience—both the highs and the lows—contributes to shaping not just your career, but your identity as a musician.

About Steve Luck

Steve Luck is an experienced and award-winning composer and pianist hailing from Newcastle upon Tyne in the UK. He has enchanted live audiences with his introspective and emotive compositions. As a media composer Steve has worked on more than one hundred and fifty projects. In 2007 he won two awards from the Royal Television Society for Professional Excellence in Music. His work with production music libraries results in regular use of his music on TV shows across the world. Steve’s modern classical piano miniatures explore the delicate interplay between melancholy and hope, forming an engaging body of work which is both contemplative and uplifting. His pieces have featured on several large Spotify playlists and garnered more than three million streams. In addition to his work as a recording artist and composer, Steve is also active within the music community. He has been a member of the music writers committee of the Musicians Union since 2015, advocating on behalf of music creators and he is also the founder of the Guild of Northern Media Composers. He believes that music has the power to bring people together and is committed to using his talents to create a positive impact. Be sure to follow him on Spotify and/or social media and stay tuned for upcoming releases and live performances.

Links

Website www.steveluck.com

Spotify https://open.spotify.com/embed/artist/6bXZK7BisCDBBGp7D0d54i

Facebook https://www.facebook.com/steveluckmusic

Instagram https://www.instagram.com/steveluckmusic/

You Tube https://www.youtube.com/@SteveLuck

Tik Tok https://www.tiktok.com/@steveluckmusic

Having taught piano for over 30 years, I’ve seen first hand the incredible impact music can have on young people, from building confidence to fostering creativity and resilience. I love teaching piano and I wanted to write this post to share some tried-and-true tips for supporting your child’s musical journey. Whether you’re a fellow musician or just love the magic of music, I hope you’ll find some useful advice to help inspire and motivate your young pianist.

Learning an instrument, like the piano, is about so much more than simply pressing the right keys. For children, this journey teaches valuable life skills—discipline, empathy, determination, cooperation—and it builds a sense of community and self-worth. It opens them to a world of joy, inspiration, and creativity that can enrich their lives in countless ways.

As a parent, you play a pivotal role in this musical adventure, even if you’re not a musician yourself. By fostering a supportive environment, setting realistic practice goals, and encouraging a joyful connection with music, you’re helping your child gain more than just musical knowledge. Here are some ways to nurture their growing love of music and encourage them on their piano journey.

1. Creating a Musical Environment

Value the Process: If you place value on music as an activity, your child will pick up on this. A positive outlook on practice time can make a world of difference.

Practice-Friendly Space: Set up a quiet area, free from distractions like TV or other noises, where they can concentrate.

Ensure Proper Setup: Make sure the piano stool is the correct height and distance, and that the piano is in tune and fully functional. If you’re using an electric piano, make sure to choose one with full-sized, weighted keys.

Show Your Own Interest: Play music around the house, attend concerts, stop and listen to buskers, and enjoy music together. Let them know music is for everyone.

2. Practice Routine Essentials

• A Regular Practice Schedule: Make practice a daily habit rather than a task to be rushed through. A daily practice schedule might look like this:

Beginners: 20 minutes

Early Stages (Grades 1–3): 30 minutes

Intermediate (Grades 4–5): 40 minutes

Advanced (Grades 6–8): 1 hour or more

Focus on Frequency: Aim for at least five sessions a week for steady progress.

Help with Organization: Adding practice time to their timetable and setting small reminders can make it feel like a part of the day. Encourage them to stick with it because it’s fun and rewarding—not just another task.

3. What Practice Should Look Like

Set Targets for practice: Long-term (e.g. take a grade exam in a year), medium term (e.g. learn all of the notes of this piece by the end of the month) and short-term goals (e.g., learn the first four bars hands separately by the end of this practice). This way, they’re always reaching toward something achievable.

Balance Activities: Break down practice into scales, current pieces, and sight reading in roughly 20/60/20 proportions.

Technical Exercises Matter: Exercises like scales and arpeggios build skills essential for fluency, strength, and understanding patterns in music.

Vary Practice Styles: Clap and count rhythms, try slow or separate hand practice, break pieces into smaller sections, and visualize music when away from the piano. Developing control over these elements brings more expression and confidence into their playing.

Remember to make time to play through older pieces too so your child develops a repertoire.

4. Engaging with Music Beyond Practice

Encourage Performance: Inviting them to perform pieces for you and others (family, friends, or even pets!) makes performing feel natural.

Listen Together: Help them develop an ear for music by identifying instruments, tapping out rhythms, or singing along. Ask questions about the mood of the piece—getting kids thinking about music’s “story” boosts their engagement.

Reward Progress Creatively: Consider occasional incentives, like a live music experience, as a reward for meeting practice goals. Star charts or positive reinforcement can be motivating, but always reinforce that the best reward is the joy of playing.

5. Staying Motivated Along the Journey

Acknowledge the Ups and Downs: Every musical journey has its own rhythm—there will be periods of rapid growth and times of slow progress, and that’s normal.

Reflect on Progress: Encourage a cycle of play, listen, reflect, and try again. Remind them that mastery comes from patient, mindful repetition.

Celebrate the Wins: Small achievements are worth acknowledging. Helping children see these moments as stepping stones fosters both confidence and resilience.

Using praise is a magic tool that, when genuine and specific, boosts confidence, motivation, and the desire to keep learning. It helps children recognize their progress, feel proud of their achievements, and develop a positive relationship with their practice.

With your support, your child can find lasting joy in music, discovering that, yes, they are lucky to play! And with these small changes, you’re cultivating a practice that enriches both their life and yours.

What are your thoughts – are there other ideas you can suggest that would help young learners? Are these things different if you are an adult learner? I suspect, not that much. Leave your comments below.

Also get in touch with me if you would like to talk about taking piano lessons either online or in person. I would love to hear from you.

Have a lovely weekend.

Steve