🎙 Episode 52 – A Dangerous Business

G’day, and welcome back to Piano, Finally—a podcast from an old bloke finally learning the piano. This week’s episode was written once again from the busy foyer of the Sydney Opera House—where Vivid’s light show and some eye-watering appetiser prices ($825!) set the scene before another performance by Sir Stephen Hough.

We begin with an update from the Cliburn piano competition, streaming live on YouTube. All six finalists are men—curious, but I’m just glad to have a favourite from the earlier Gina Bachauer comp in the running. (Note to competition organisers: please consider school holidays next time!)

🎹 This week’s featured channel is DSoundman—a.k.a. Douglas: songwriter, studio producer, and worship leader. His content dives deep into keyboard reviews, tutorials, and creative sound design. Whether you’re new to Nord and Roland boards or just curious about what modern stage pianos can do, his videos are a treasure trove. He also sells courses and preset packs for those looking to level up.

In the essay, A Dangerous Business, we reflect on just how far the piano journey can carry you. What started with a single Roland piano has spiralled into digital grand actions, YouTube rabbit holes, sound design adventures, and reflections on music education. We tip our hat to David Bennett Piano, Elton John, and Billy Joel—and we explore why learning classical first still makes sense, even if you’re aiming for Pink Floyd.

Classical training builds the foundation—but pop music’s chord progressions are opening new doors. The goal is to blend both worlds, and it turns out the scenic route—via detours and diversions—makes for a much better trip.

🎛 To that end, we review Syntorial by Audible Genius—a powerful course that teaches synthesis through ear training rather than theory. With 199 lessons, a built-in synth, and a free trial of the first 22 lessons, it’s a brilliant way to learn what all those knobs and sliders actually do. It’s already helping improve listening skills and synth programming—and it’s surprisingly fun.

🎶 In progress news: the debating season’s over, practice is back on track (even if Wednesday went mysteriously off the rails), and a few “once-a-session” pieces made it to the mic—Spindler’s Canon, Türk’s Bagatelle in F, and Cragg’s Afternoon Snooze and Blackout Blues. Recorded on the Kawai NV10 with Pianoteq’s New York Steinway Model D, they’re a nod to the Cliburn competition’s piano of choice.

As always, get in touch at [email protected] or via pianofinally.show.

Until next time,

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