Here’s a funny and light-hearted story about the famous pianist Lang Lang:
When Lang Lang was a young boy, around the age of 9, he was preparing for a big piano competition in China. He was extremely nervous, as any young pianist would be before a major performance. However, his nerves didn’t come from stage fright or the pressure of the competition itself. It came from something much more unexpected—his own pet parrot!
Lang Lang had been practicing nonstop for weeks and, in the midst of his intense preparation, his parrot would sit on his shoulder while he played. The bird, perhaps thinking it was part of the performance, would squawk loudly and flap its wings as Lang Lang was practicing delicate, intricate passages. Of course, this would throw him off, and instead of just focusing on his music, Lang Lang found himself trying to shush the parrot while maintaining his concentration.
On the day of the competition, as Lang Lang took to the stage, the nerves kicked in again—but this time, it was the memory of his pet parrot’s constant "assistance" during his practice that gave him a little chuckle. According to Lang Lang himself, he was reminded that no matter what happened, there was always a possibility that something unexpected (like a parrot’s squawk) could make him laugh and lighten the mood.
Though the parrot didn’t accompany him to the competition, Lang Lang always fondly remembers that time as one of the many funny and memorable moments from his musical journey..
🎹 From Retirement to Rhythm:
How I Became a Piano Teacher After Retiring from public school music teacher
By Ms. Cheryl – Piano Lessons with Ms. Cheryl
When I stepped into retirement, I expected to slow down, take it easy, and maybe pick up a few hobbies. I didn’t expect to launch a joyful second career—but life has a funny way of surprising us in the best ways.
Music has always been a part of who I am. The piano was my companion for years—sometimes center stage, other times quietly in the background. But it wasn’t until I retired that I returned to it with fresh eyes and a new purpose.
It started simply. A neighbor asked if I could teach their grandchild a few basics. I said yes, and that little “yes” turned out to be the first note of something beautiful.
The moment I began teaching, something clicked. I wasn’t just passing on musical knowledge—I was building confidence, creating joy, and watching young minds discover their own voices through music. One student led to another, and before long, my home studio was filled with laughter, music, and the soft clatter of piano keys being learned and loved.
That’s when Piano Lessons with Ms. Cheryl was born.
I now teach students ages 4 to 94, and it’s been one of the most rewarding adventures of my life. My lessons are playful and creative, filled with rhythm games, musical stories, and gentle encouragement. I get to help students grow—not just in skill, but in confidence, patience, and self-expression.
The joy on a child’s face when they play their first song? There’s nothing like it.
Teaching piano in retirement has shown me that it’s never too late to find your rhythm. And sometimes, the best encore in life isn’t on stage—it’s in a small studio, with tiny hands learning to make music for the very first time.
Are you curious about lessons with Ms. Cheryl?
I offer playful, age-appropriate private and buddy lessons for young beginners. Reach out and let’s make music together!
