In episode 84, How Sightreading Sparks Creative Flow, I’m talking with piano educator David Holter about sightreading, creative flow, and playing with more ease and confidence. We explore his “blue mode” and “red mode” approach—along with the approach of focusing on one skill at a time. David's teaching method is based on the Lister Sink Method, which relieves pressure, builds tactile awareness, and strengthens rhythm and musicality.

We talk about breaking sightreading into manageable steps, developing a mindful connection between your eyes, hands, and the keys, and how making mistakes can actually be a powerful part of learning. David also shares how body awareness and injury-preventive technique can transform your playing, making it more expressive, enjoyable, and sustainable over time.

This episode is packed with practical tips for adult piano learners, returning players, and anyone who wants to read music and play more freely without getting caught up in perfectionism. You’ll leave with specific strategies to deepen your practice, enjoy music more fully, and nurture your creative flow.

Connect with David Holter 👇

• SightreadingSpark.com – workshops and courses
• Sightreading Spark (Facebook) – free strategies and tips
• Lister Sink Methodology - the approach that informs David's teaching

Take Your Piano Practice Further:

🎹 Essential Piano Basics Course 🎹 – Enrollment is open now! Build a strong foundation at the keyboard with essential tools, develop the mindset and effective practice strategies to overcome frustration and plateaus, and make steady, confident progress in your piano learning.  YourCreativeChord.com/epb

Got thoughts or feedback? Tap here to send me a quick note—I’d love to hear from you!

Support the show

Connect with Jenny Leigh:

• Beat blocks. Find flow. Start creating: Creative Empowerment Sampler
• Restore energy & balance: Burnout RESET Guide
• Nurture YOUR creative life: Creative Empowerment Coaching
• Get inspired with a book: 🌻 Kaleidoscope Of The Heart: A Poetry and Lyrics Collection or 🎹 Start Piano: What You Need For Successful Learning!

SUBSCRIBE to Your Creative Chord on Apple or Spotify! Please rate and review—it helps others find creative inspiration, too!

Help keep creativity flowing by supporting the mission and gaining access to free resources. 👉 Support Today

Your Creative Chord Podcast show music, Sun & Bloom © 2016 Jenny Leigh Hodgins | All Content, music, poetry © 2026 Jenny Leigh Hodgins All Rights Reserved.

...