Music is a great resource for soothing the soul. Nobody doubts the efficacy of listening to music to raise the spirits. However, if you can play music - at whatever level - the benefits are so much more magnified. Science shows us that the brain engages most fully when playing an instrument - and that’s only the start of the positive effects that playing music holds for us. When life gets tough - get playing!

I’m falling in love with my Trevor James flute - again. We’ve had a patchy relationship in the past but I’m rediscovering my love for all things flute. I started playing at about 12 years old and playing flute had a huge impact on my teenage years - though it wasn’t without its disasters! Decades later I’m finding the love all over again!

After nearly two years, choir rehearsal resume! What a work to start with: Mozart’s Requiem! It’s a substantial work and a BIG sing, but I love it so much! It’s also so great to be back, seeing my choir friends and singing great music. We perhaps had a rusty start, but it’s a start - and I’m so happy to be back!

Get the best from your instrument, and work smarter not harder. Don’t waste your time as when you sit at your instrument. With the start of a new academic year make your music routine work for you and get the most out of your music.