The Keys Coach Podcast

Oli Howe is a keys player, producer and prominent figure in the UK scene and has shared stages with the likes of Yoland Brown, Omar Lyefook, Tortured Soul, Freak Power, The House & Garage Orchestra, Billy Cobham and Taylor McFerrin while drawing sold-out houses with headline shows at top UK venues such as Ronnie Scott’s Jazz Club, Pizza Express Jazz Club, Brighton Jazz Festival and most recently Love Supreme Jazz Festival.    In 2023, Oli released, “Six”  which explores high-energy live band performances, and extreme feel-good vibes blurring the lines between jazz, fusion, RnB, gospel and hip-hop.   In this episode Adam and Oli chat about: The difference is between playing piano and playing keysOli’s process for teaching himself jazz piano and why the Internet has completely transformed educationOli’s top tips for starting out with social media and how to build a following onlineSecrets for developing your chords and finding interesting reharmonisations   This is the final episode of Season 1! Season 2 will be dropping later this year - keep an eye out on social media for more info.   Oli Howe's Instagram 'Six' on Bandcamp   YouTube Tutorial: How to Master Inversions Follow the Keys Coach on Instagram   Hosted by Adam Saunders Music - https://www.davidcuttermusic.com/

Nicky Brown is a keys player and producer, and a highly respected figure in the music industry, known for his exceptional talent as a Musical Director. He has worked with artists, including Emeli Sandé, Michael Bolton, Tom Jones, Earth Wind and Fire, and Madonna, among many others.   In this episode, Adam and Nicky chat about: Nicky’s incredible career in the music industryWhy it’s so important to have mentors to help you along the wayWhy playing keys in church is the best learning groundWhy it’s not about the amount of notes you play, but how meaningful those notes areWhy as keys players, we need to play the song, rather than just the groove.   Nicky's Instagram   YouTube Tutorial: The Ultimate Piano Warm Up Follow the Keys Coach on Instagram   Hosted by Adam Saunders Music - https://www.davidcuttermusic.com/

In this solo episode, Adam explains how the Podcast is gearing up to be bigger and better than ever before, ready for the launch of Season 2... and we need your help!   CLICK HERE to fill out the Podcast Feedback Survey.   The podcast returns for the remainder of Season 1, next Thursday with the awesome Nicky Brown.

David Bennett is a pianist, composer and YouTuber. With a following of almost 1 million subscribers, his videos use music theory to analyse and appreciate some of the most revered music of the last one hundred years. David's first love is composing. His style is meditative, minimalist and, very much, piano-focused. In 2024, David is set to release a new collection of original songs.   In this episode Adam and David chat about: Why finding the right teacher is so important when starting on the pianoWhy it’s vital to have a creative project on-the-goDavid’s top tips for getting out of familiar shapes and patterns, and ways to generate new ideasWhy The Beatles are such a huge source of inspirationPlus we also do a deep-dive into why YouTube is such an awesome opportunity for musicians and creators.   David's YouTube Channel     YouTube Tutorial: 3 Secrets for Crafting AWESOME Chord Sequences Follow the Keys Coach on Instagram   Hosted by Adam Saunders Music - https://www.davidcuttermusic.com/

Howard Lawrence is an incredible songwriter, producer, singer, keys player, and bass player. He is one-half of the amazing electronic music duo, Disclosure. Disclosure are one of the biggest bands in electronic music, having collaborated with artists such as Sam Smith, Kelis, Gregory Porter, The Weeknd, and Nao, to name just a few! Their latest album Alchemy was released in July 2023.   In this episode Adam and Howard chat about: Whether you actually need to know music theory...How you can ‘tweak’ chords using MidiHow Howard got started playing by earHoward’s go-to albums for incredible backing vocalsThey also answer YOUR questions - plus lots, lots more!   Howard’s Instagram Disclosure’s Instagram Disclosure on Spotfiy   YouTube Tutorial: The Ultimate Guide to Chord Charts Follow the Keys Coach on Instagram   Hosted by Adam Saunders Music - https://www.davidcuttermusic.com/

Nate Williams is a keys player, producer and multi-instrumentalist. He has performed with Jamiroquai, Joss Stone and Steve Winwood amongst many others. His latest EP, ‘Chapters’ was released in 2023 and features an incredible line-up of musicians.   In this episode, Adam and Nate chat about: Why tension and release are crucialThe awesomeness of plagal cadencesWhy Nate doesn’t care if a chord doesn’t fit in the keyNate’s top tips for learning sound designWhy Nate always gravitates towards Upright Pianos over Grand PianosThe significance of developing a relationship with an acoustic piano, even for synth enthusiasts... plus lots, lots more!   Nate's Instagram Chapters - Nate Williams   YouTube Tutorial: The Ultimate Guide to Chord Charts Follow the Keys Coach on Instagram   Hosted by Adam Saunders Music - https://www.davidcuttermusic.com/

Bryn Bliska is an LA-based keys player, composer, producer, and MD who frequently collaborates with artists & producers across many genres, including Jacob Collier, Karol G, Maggie Rogers, Olivia Rodrigo, Rozzi, Lawrence, Sofi Tukker, Jackson Wang, Tegan & Sara, YUNGBLUD, Ruth B., and ford.   In this episode, Bryn and Adam chat about: Why adding a ninth to a major chord is the ‘Secret Sauce’Bryn’s process for how to learn a large amount of repertoire when you’ve got a tour or gig coming upWhy Bryn has to go into full ‘Octopus’ mode when playing in Jacob Collier’s bandWhy so often the best things that happen onstage are unplannedPlus a deep-dive breakdown of Bryn’s practice routine… and lots, lots more!   Follow Bryn on Instagram Bryn's Website   YouTube Tutorial: How to Improvise with Chords on Piano (in 8 Steps!) Follow the Keys Coach on Instagram   Hosted by Adam Saunders Music - https://www.davidcuttermusic.com/

Dani McGinley is a keyboardist and vocalist with over 12 years of professional experience. Originally from London and now based in LA, she has worked with a wide range of artists, including chart-toppers such as MARINA, Daya, Rachel Platten, Sabrina Carpenter, Charli XCX, James Bay, and Bea Miller. She is currently on tour with Niall Horan.   In this episode, you will learn: Why the Korg Kronos is Dani’s go-to keyboardWhy recording yourself can be a complete game changer for speeding up the learning processWhat Dani practices when she has a rare day off from touringPLUS we talk all things Keytar… and lots, lots more!   Dani’s Instagram   The Keys Coach YouTube Channel - 'Don't Practise Scales... Do This!' Follow the Keys Coach on Instagram   Hosted by Adam Saunders Music - https://www.davidcuttermusic.com/

In this episode, Adam sits down with singer, songwriter and pianist, Julian Velard, best known for his unique blend of music and comedy. Based in LA, Julian has a decade-long presence in the US music and comedy scenes and has also become a cult sensation in the UK and Europe. He has received notable accolades from The Guardian, Time Out London, and The Sunday Times which propelled him to a major label record deal. Julian has toured internationally with Jamie Cullum, Paul Carrack, and Goldfrapp, and shared stages with comedians like Will Ferrell, Reggie Watts, and Paul Scheer. He served as the artist-in-residence at Joe’s Pub at the Public New Theatre in NYC, and his live show was recognized as one of the best by Broadway World.   In this episode, you will learn: The lessons Julian has learnt from performing in piano bars across the US and the world!Why understanding Music Theory helped unlock Julian’s songwritingWhy Julian’s go-to process for learning a song is by reading the ‘songbooks’Why all the musical elements of a song, should be there to serve the lyric… and lots, lots more!   ‘In The Middle of Something’ Kickstarter Campaign   The Keys Coach YouTube Channel - 'Don't Practise Scales... Do This!' Follow the Keys Coach on Instagram   Hosted by Adam Saunders Music - https://www.davidcuttermusic.com/

The Keys Coach Podcast is currently on a short-break, and gearing up for its return on Thursday 18th January with an incredible episode featuring the talented Singer-Songwriter, Julian Velard. See you then!

Join Adam Saunders and Simeon Smith for Part 2 of the The Keys Coach Podcast Xmas Special. Get in the festive, pre-New Year mood as they round up the year and chat all things Piano, Harmony, Practice and lots more! Plus special guest appearances from Fraser Churchill, Pete Churchill and Joe Webb.   In this episode, discover: Simeon's secret routine for keeping in shape on the pianoWhy the chord symbol 'add9' can be problematicWhy Adam practises modes from Bright to DarkA sneak peek of the guests lined up for 2024... and much, much more!   Lastly, the podcast will be taking a short break at the beginning of 2024 and will be returning on Thursday 18th January. In the meantime - Happy New Year!

Join Adam and Simeon Smith for a special edition of The Keys Coach Podcast. Get in the festive mood as they round up the year and chat all things Christmas, Piano, Keys, Chords, Gear and much, much more!  Plus special guest appearances from Janette Mason and Oli Rockberger.   In this episode you will learn: Why perfect pitch can be both a blessing and a curseHow Simeon learned to play classical piano pieces by earWhy Adam and Simeon both share a love for Nord keyboardsAdam's hidden aspiration of becoming a local radio DJ, and lots, lots more!   Join us for Part 2, dropping on the 28th of December!

Adam Dennis has performed with Noel Gallagher, Robbie Williams, Tony Christie and Freya Ridings amongst many others. He’s a regular in the West End, the BBC Radio 2 Piano Room, as well as the house band for live TV shows, including Strictly Come Dancing and the Royal Variety Performance.   In this episode you will learn: The importance of being adaptable and versatile as a keyboard playerHow Adam stays ‘in-shape’ on the piano and how he prepares for live gigsHow he practices with a metronome while still maintaining fluidityWhat advice Adam would give anyone wanting to enter the session world… and lots, lots more!   Adam’s Instagram Recreating Iconic Sounds with the Mellotron V   JOIN THE KEYS COACH WAITLIST

Phil Merriman is a pianist, keys player and arranger. He is equally at home playing classical, pop and jazz and has a huge love for Gospel music. He has performed with artists such as Andrew Small, Brendan B. Brown, CeCe Peniston and Polly Gibbons amongst many others!   In this episode you will learn: Why John Taylor was such a huge influence on PhilWhy Phil records every gig he does, and then listens back and makes notes!How Phil developed a love for gospel music and synth bassWhy tone production on the piano, is so important and why it often gets overlookedHow ‘Transcribing’ can mean various things to different people… and lots, lots more!   FOLLOW PHIL ON INSTAGRAM ANGEL OF THE PRESENCE - JOHN TAYLOR   **JOIN THE KEYS COACH WAITLIST**

Conor Albert is a South London-based keys player, guitarist, songwriter and producer. A self-taught multi-instrumentalist he started making beats at the age of 8, finding an audience for his early demos on SoundCloud. It was listening to FKJ and Jordan Rakei whilst learning piano in his teens that encouraged him to make soulful, jazz-influenced, beat-driven music.     In this episode you will learn:   How Conor taught himself keys, and why discovering jazz harmony helped fuel his passion for songwritingWhat a typical writing day looks like and how he approaches creating new musicWhy Conor decided to take a break from social mediaWhy Conor and Adam share a mutual love for the 1975… and lots, lots more!     FOLLOW CONOR ON INSTAGRAM   CONOR ALBERT & JAMES SMITH - CRESCENT MOON (LIVE)     JOIN THE KEYS COACH WAITLIST

Louis Querelle is a piano and keys player who has performed with Niall Horan, Olly Murs and Amy Macdonald amongst many others.   In this episode you will learn: What it’s like touring the world in Niall Horan’s bandWhat Louis practises to keep match-fit on the piano while on the roadWhy the Nord Stage is Louis’ go-to keyboardWhat it was like playing for President Biden at the White House… and lots, lots more!   Follow Louis on Instagram JOIN THE KEYS COACH WAITLIST! 🚀

George Moore is a keys player, MD and songwriter, based in London. George has played on numerous records including projects with Kwabs and Mura Masa. As a songwriter he has worked with Stormzy, Clean Bandit, Yebba, Bren Joy and Cat Burns amongst many others.   In this episode you will learn: What it was like to write ‘Firebabe’ for Stormzy’s latest albumHow George keeps in shape on the pianoWhy hanging out with an artist before a session, ultimately leads to a better songWhy learning the drums is so useful as a keys player… and lots, lots more!   George's Instagram George Moore Discog - Spotify Playlist   🎹 The Keys Coach JOIN THE WAITLIST! 🚀   Hosted by Adam Saunders Music - dcuttermusic.com

Joe Webb is a highly regarded pianist, jazz musician, and composer, originally from Wales. He has emerged as a leading force on the U.K jazz scene today, captivating audiences with his exceptional talent and rockstar-like persona. Joe is known for his work with the acclaimed Webb City, Kansas Smitty's, Adrian Cox & Rob Luft, and has collaborated with artists like Jamie Cullum.   In this episode you will learn: What drew Joe to the piano in the first placeHow to practice stride piano while watching TVWhat it was like performing on Jamie Cullum’s Christmas albumWhy Joe’s first album was described as the soundtrack to an imaginary 60s pool party… and lots, lots more!   - - -  🔗 CONNECT WITH JOE Instagram Website Stream ‘Munchin’ In Munchen’   - - -  🎹 THE KEYS COACH Join The Waitlist! 🚀 Follow us on 📷 Instagram   - - -  ⭐️ LEAVE A REVIEW If you’re enjoying the podcast, please consider leaving a 5-star review on Apple Podcasts. Your feedback is greatly appreciated and helps support the show and grow our community. If you have any guest suggestions or would like to get in touch, you can do so by emailing adam@thekeyscoach.com - we reply to every email!   - - - Hosted by Adam Saunders Music - dcuttermusic.com

Richard Taylor is a keys player, producer and MD who has played with Emin, Ronan Keating, David Foster, Nile Rodgers, Little Mix, James Arthur and many more.   In this episode you will learn: What it was like playing with bands like Five, Westlife and All Saints during the heyday of the boyband & girlband eraHow muscle memory can play a huge part when it comes to learning songsHow Richard’s tech setup on stage can vary from artist to artistWhy if you can hear the click.. you’re often not playing with the click, and lots, lots more!   - - -  🔗 CONNECT WITH RICHARD Instagram   - - -  🎹 THE KEYS COACH Join The Waitlist! 🚀 Follow us on 📷 Instagram   - - -  ⭐️ LEAVE A REVIEW If you’re enjoying the podcast, please consider leaving a 5-star review on Apple Podcasts. Your feedback is greatly appreciated and helps support the show and grow our community. If you have any guest suggestions or would like to get in touch, you can do so by emailing adam@thekeyscoach.com - we reply to every email!   - - - Hosted by Adam Saunders Music - dcuttermusic.com

Tina Hizon is a keys player, MD and Producer. She has played with Dua Lipa, Roger Taylor, the Pet Shop Boys, Clean Bandit, Becky Hill and she is currently touring with Maisie Peters and Ed Sheeran. Tina has performed on live television shows such as Later with Jools Holland, Jimmy Kimmel, James Corden, The Today Show, X Factor, Britain's Got Talent and she has also performed at music festivals such as Coachella, Glastonbury, Rock in Rio & Stereosonic.   In this episode you will learn: How Tina developed her love for performance aged just 4 years oldWhy the Keytar has given her even more freedom on stageWhat Tina practices when she has a rare day offHow to stay grounded, while touring the world and lots, lots more!   - - - 🔗 Connect with Tina Instagram Tina Hizon Live Playlist   - - -  🎹 The Keys Coach Join The Waitlist! 🚀 Follow us on 📷 Instagram   - - -  ⭐️ Leave a Review If you’re enjoying the podcast, please consider leaving a 5-star review on Apple Podcasts. Your feedback is greatly appreciated and helps support the show and grow our community. If you have any guest suggestions or would like to get in touch, you can do so by emailing adam@thekeyscoach.com - we reply to every email!   - - - Hosted by Adam Saunders Music - dcuttermusic.com