Love your videos, personality. If there is a time gap again. Maybe purchase quality vitamins (MSM, Collagen etc) before joints become stiff or even for ongoing ease to play.
I started playing piano when I was 10. My mom wanted me to play an instrument of some kind - I had perfect pitch, after all, so I might as well put it to good use. I lucked out with an amazing teacher who guided me through my first 8 years on the instrument and helped me achieve things I thought impossible, including learning a piece by Rachmaninoff, which I never thought I’d be able to do when I first started. I had difficulty shutting down my “ear” and depending on my “sight” if that makes any sense. Moving onto college, I had no intention of majoring in music. I wanted to go to medical school, so I should major in the sciences. Ruskin Cooper changed that. He was an adjunct professor of piano in my college’s department of music, and he ignited an academic passion for music that matched the fervor of my playing. With him, I learned my first concerto. I had to take some time off from school because I got sick. He died from a heart attack while I was away. With him died my light. I hadn’t realized that in him I saw the father that I never had. I didn’t touch the piano for six years after he passed away. I’m slowly making my way back to my instrument. It’s taken a long time because every time I sat down and tried something as simple as technical exercises, my mind would flood with memories of our lessons together. Maybe having lessons with someone else would help to ease the grief, but a strange part of me feels that I would be betraying him by doing that. I know I haven’t healed, but I want to. I sound horrible now, but I won’t give up. There are embers still within me, and they’ll burn bright again someday. Edit (fifteen months later): Remember how I mentioned that I got sick? I’ve since been diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis. Now I know WHY I got sick. Life isn’t always easy, is it? But knowing I’m probably going to permanently lose my ability to play at some point forced my ass back onto the bench like lightning. I don’t play nearly to the same level as I did before, but I’m now making strides to enter the music business as a composer and livestreamer on Twitch. I’m DOING something with my music. My light is back. I’m as happy as can be given the circumstances. Looking back, knowing what I know now, I think Dr. Cooper would be really proud of what I’ve tried to make out of a crappy situation.
The "sound horrible" comment is unfair. Learn to enjoy making mistakes again. Keep your expectations fair and reasonable. What brought you to play is what will bring you back if you let it happen.
My advice or opinion may or may not ring true with you, but what would he wish you to do? He taught you things to carry his torch, to keep part of him alive forever through you and your music. Grief is natural, but after so long, I'm sure you could work through transmuting that grief and pain into passion. They're only a few letters off anyway. Jokes aside, you playing beautiful music again is what your teacher would have wanted, is it not? You'll be honoring him and his memory by keeping him alive in some way every time you sit down. He can be with you in spirit and those memories may be painful at first, but with a change in perspective towards a more positive viewpoint, maybe it would help? Pardon the long ramble, I wish you the best on your musical journey! He was not only helping teaching you piano, but now is teaching you how to be a stronger and more resilient person to deal with this struggle as well.
TuttiTunes lol I doubt you have perfect pitch. Perfect pitch comes when you start learning an instrument and receive ear training when you are less than 5 or 6 years old.
For whatever reason, this is such a relaxing, calming, and peaceful vlog. It's great to see you're out about and under the sun. Thank you and stay safe!!
Not a big mystery - the Duke + Tiffany + a beautiful spring day in a wonderful park. Hints of a new language forming through reflections with the Duke?
I played classical piano from the age of 4, competed internationally, and it consumed my entire life. As I got older and into high school, piano became such a burden. I lost my passion and enjoyment for it and was merely practicing to win competitions. I stopped competing a year ago, and am just getting back into practicing a few times a week, and it feels so much better than before. Thank you for sharing your story!
I am happy for you . You found yourself and truth . Now think of all the hassles you won't have to ruin your health . Train , airplane Routine , not eating hotel food not suffering food poisoning every city you go to , not dealing with concert and hall managers and nasty critics and perfection demanding other musicians . You can't create music or replenish love of creating music with all that . how Argerich ,Barenboim and so many others means there is more than just having a great ear , musicainship , technique etc. to being a traveling musician . I think it's more important to teach for those who really know what it means to play even one note musically . Enjoy Music . you found your freedom . I used to practice 12 and more hours but i had no idea what I was doing and ididn't have honest , demanding teachers . It took me a long time to let go . Now I write music . Thinking about going back and getting a doctorate in composition . Anyway , I was glad to read your "restorative " testimony .
This is an interesting remark. Looking at Tiffany's hands I noticed that she has a very strong life energy, and the potential to live up to a high age.
@@西宮硝子-k8l Not at all. Tiffany 'talks so much with her hands' in her vlogs that it doesn't take a big effort to catch a glimpse of her hand lines. Ever heard of Palmistry? I only have a basic knowledge in that, but Tiffany has very long and well defined "life lines" on both hands. Life lines are the creases that run around the mound shaped by the base of your thumb, and towards the wrist. They are called so because - according to hand palm readers - their depth indicate the intensity of the individual's life energy, and their length are an indicator of how long (potentially) that person's life is going to be. Some people might call that nonsense; I leave it here as trivia 😜
Without knowing YOU personally, after watching your numerous vlogs, concerts and interviews I am ABSOLUTELY certain that you are one of the NICEST human beings on this planet. I'm 55, I've been around but whenever I see you it is like a breath of fresh air. Wish you all the best!!!
Aside from the fact that we truly admire Tiffany's talents, I'm certain that I can speak for everyone by saying that this lady is surely holistically fabulous. Kudos to your parents who brought you up so well. Keep being an inspiration. We've got your back ☺️ Stay safe
It's been a few months for me since the last time i watched Tiffany's video The reason why i disappointed on Tiffany is because i was at my edge of giving up on piano. I was learning Liebeslied Kreisler/Rachmaninoff and Tiffany just started to play it. I've been practicing that piece for almost a year and Tiffany did it in couple of days. And i sent comments to Tiffany on TH-cam asking for tips and encouragement. Tiffany didn't reply or liked my comment but someone else did and that someone said "you need to keep practicing, if you haven't nailed it, it's because you're not practicing enough" And Tiffany give a like on that comment Thats why i disappointed on Tiffany Just think with your mind if you're really down what do you need? Encouragement or judge mental from other people?
Christopher Jonathan you sound like you expect the world to revolve around you. You’re upset because she didn’t reply or like your comment, and because you’re jealous because she was able to learn a piece quicker than you? She’s a concert pianist who’s spent much more time practicing so of course she’ll learn things quicker; not to mention she has a life too. You should appreciate that someone bothered to reply to help, her liking it shows she agreed with the reply. And why does it matter if she likes your comment or not? Are you that insecure that you need validation? If you really need help just get a teacher; there’s also plenty of great instructional videos for piano. Sorry I just really don’t understand this comment...
@@christopherjonathan817 O eres muy joven o no has comprendido el sentido del "like" de Tiffani. Ella, simplemente, estuvo de acuerdo con lo que te recomendaba el otro lector. viendo otros Vlogers he comprobado que es imposible contestar 300 diarios. Either you are very young or you have not understood Tiffani's "like" sense. She simply agreed with what the other reader recommended. Seeing other Vlogers I have found that it is impossible to answer 300 newspapers.
Christopher Jonathan here’s my question. Why do you play the piano? For narcissistic things? To show how goody good you are? Or to inspire. If it’s that. Your not doing it. You don’t need people to rely on. You have to rely on yourself. You can’t be mad at Tiffany. Tiffany always worked by herself right? She was always in a room alone with a piano playing it. Figuring out ways. If she did so, you can too. You can’t be mad. But you can use that mad to fuel your practice. Don’t be mad. Not when you can do something good.
Christopher Jonathan If she likes that comment, it’s because she agrees with it. What more do you need from her? Practicing more or figuring things by yourself is something everyone needs, and no social media person has a obligation to help you just because you asked for it.
This was so bloody helpful I can’t even begin to tell you. I have been so uninspired to play since the pandemic. I miss playing with all my colleagues and I had so much work lined up. When it all went away, it felt like something inside me died. I still tried to practice, but mostly I just kept beating myself up and feeling incompetent that I wasn’t using all the extra time to “Uber-practice”. Everybody on TH-cam has gotten so creative with performances from their home, or doing the split screen live shows. All completely brilliant and performances for which I am truly appreciative. But it just made me feel like some kind of lazy slacker. Your words and inspiration made me realize there’s something on the other side of this. It may not be what we once knew. It may not even be in front of a live audience. But internally, I will always know that I was born to play. To play without judgement of myself or from anyone else. For just the sheer joy of making music. Things will get easier, better. Thank you so much for pointing that out to me.
"How do you express your life experiences musically if you do not live life first?" Deep question musicians ask themselves... They spend so much time practicing that life falls by the wayside, yet they need those experiences to inject nuances into their music, otherwise, it's just robotic playing. To what extent do you all agree or disagree?
I have this exact issue, my music just feels empty because I can't put too many experiences in there to give it life... It's easy to fall into the trap of "more practice makes music better" And while your technique might get better the music suffers in other ways.
Couldn't agree more. Music is art, and you need to absorb the world around you and be in touch with your feelings in order to be more expressive. Speaking for me, I noticed a true development in how I express myself through music when I realized that, and stopped pursuing 8+ hours practicing and all that.
@@umcirculoperfeito I've pushed my music to the side, because I'm never happy with the tracks anyway and all my friends don't wanna listen to anything I make, it's always "oooh, yeah I'mma listen to it later tonight" and then they don't. So what's the fucking point of making music when everybody keeps bashing it or ignoring it, saying it's shit or it's too difficult... Everybody always goes on about how they want something different, then I give em something different and they say they don't like it cause it's different, it's bullshit and I can't find any joy in my music anymore, I just feel bitter and alone. I have 40 instrumentals that are just gathering dust because nobody wants to listen to it and the feedback I get is totally useless, but I can't stop making music else I might as well stop existing all together.
@@deathbunny3048 your friends are a very small audience...in a larger audience (maybe here on YT?) there will be for sure a lot people who will be able to enjoy your music
How could anyone be mean to such a sweet face? Love your enthusiasm . You give me a fresh perspective when I myself get discouraged. Thanks for being yourself!
We all have moments in life where our mind and body force us to step back from our work to have a look how we did, where we are, re-set ourselves, and then go on from there. In popular language this is called "re-charging batteries" or "Re-Energize ourselves". Thanks for sharing your thoughts with us... and the beautiful views of a NYC park in early summer!
We are all in this together. We are all greatful for having you make us all these helpful, enjoyable and beautiful videos! Please stay safe and put yourself first, be kind and keep striving! ☺🎼❤
As a semi-professional pianist always considering how far I should keep pursuing piano, this was really helpful and interesting to hear, thank you 🙏, especially that’s it’s ok to take a break sometimes and not always be striving to the next goal
@Lucas Zflenki no I didn’t, but I’ve studied privately with a great teacher for a very long time, with whom I still study today - he definitely inspires me a lot. I've had sooome successes in various international competitions, but there are so many great pianists!
So it's possible to be a semi-professionnal pianist? Do you mean you play concerts from time to time but also have another job? Isn't that impossible to have enough time to practice in order to have a level where you can perform concerts?
@@Gamerapha :: Generally, it is possible to play in public and also do something else for a living, but concerts like those with big posters and hundreds of listeners, perhaps not. But think of going to a community outside "bigcity", longing for true music to come by, live, so close there's no loudspeakers, just the instrument - imagine "chamber music societys" and all - they thrive here and there. Churches, too, if they are not too narrowminded, will welcome a musician.
@Gamerapha mm it’s definitely hard to balance time and focus amongst different careers, especially as piano at this level really requires consistent practising/performing etc. It’s hard enough in general for full-time pianists where so few pianists can really attain a ‘performing career’ so to speak - most teach in conservatories on the side also. But as with everything you can put into it as much as you want 😕
I’m trying to juggle med-school and piano and for me it really is a matter of prioritising one over the other at certain times. Twice a year, I have major exams coming up, I know I have to step away of the piano for, say, 2 weeks. Or at least not play 5 hours a day and maybe just casually play for 20 minutes with the pure intention of relaxing. And that’s totally fine. You just have to be aware of it, so that you don’t feel like crap. Your day only has 24 hours and sometimes, it’s challenging to fit everything you want in it.
@@frugaldoctor291 I will have to disagree. Medical school per se doesn’t screw up your technique. I get what you meant though. It’s about smart praticing. If you choose to do anything on the side of music, you know you will not become the next Kissin or Horowitz. It’s a fact that you either accept or you don’t. But then you can’t do anything aside of music. (And even then, your chances are close to zero.)
Sincere appreciation for balancing medical school and piano. I tried and failed during my post graduation in medicine.awaiting to do as I'm completing my PG.
Came across your channel recently and have been binge watching your videos. Finally picked up the piano again for the first time in about two years. Managed to push through to the Chopins g minor ballade for the first time after I gave up halfway through two years ago! Glad I caught this before heading to bed. Thanks for being a motivator :)
Dear Tiffany, as a professional musician myself this post was extremely helpful in processing the pressure and overwhelm that has been blocking me for years and holding me back from my passions and favourite things to do in music. You are tremendously patient, wise and kind with yourself - not sure how you've been able to do that but I'm thankful you are and I'm thankful for your sharing.
Love this vlog ms Poon! My father died of cancer. Even his last words was a lesson. ' You can only do your best, nobody has the right to ask more!' In time I learned, and remembered, the lesson that shifting pace is a crucial part. ms Poon! No guilt! Accept and know you're all good! ❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️
I discovered your chanel 1 month ago. I have watched all your vlogs at a slower speed, with English subtitles, ---- since the age of 8, I want to learn the piano .... I have now 65 and for 2 years I have lessons on the net with a Quebec professor, and a professor from France- and in winter a Mexican teacher ..... I love it even if it is difficult. I want to thank you for everything you do, because you encourage us to continue. your personality so endearing brings me joy each time I discover another video .... I make myself a coffee and I taste your vlog! Thank you very much for sharing your pianist life with us, I love it! I wish you a long and beautiful life filled with music and that all your dreams can come true!
Your blogs are very therapeutic. Thank you Tiffany! I hope you realize that you are an inspiration for a lot of young musicians out there. Take all of this at your own pace 👍
I have studied music daily since 4 years old. However I have been suffering from depression and hearing you describe your experience makes me feel as if Im not totally alone. I have been uploading practice sessions although the last month has been hard for me. Hearing you talk has given me motivation to start again. Thank you ♥
Big lessons be learned by young people over this, it’s a shocker but so necessary, to be who you are and especially who you will be.. you All are so lucky to have this opportunity , it’s a world shaker upper.
In the past for 10 years l stopped to play piano, l forgot notes. After 10 years l started again to play. It was difficult but now l am very happy🙂👍🌹🎶🇬🇷
I stopped to play piano after the death of a relative. I dont had the courage even to listen music. After years l missed piano l start to play again. Music is very valuable for me 🙂🌹
SEE !!!!!!!! Even the chipmunk says, awhhh! Don't say bye! The video ended and we miss you already. Lots of luv ! from this German-Canadian in Canada : ) ♥ Thank you for the beautiful Richard Wagner piano performance and explanation of that apparatus. Enjoy this summer! Rest, and enjoy the beautiful summer weather!
Go with the flow, Tiffany. We're all on a strange and mystical journey. The music you love, that we all love, comes to us from far beyond, and gets woven into our experiences of life. You're on a voyage of discovery. Keep travelling and we'll walk with you.
Tiffany, thank you so much for sharing your talent, humanity and most intimate insights. You are still quite the unique TH-cam personality, so open and candid, letting us participate in your life as though we were your closest friends. It is greatly appreciated. Just remember when you see hate, that it says much about the person it comes from, but nothing at all about you. Do not allow it to set you back emotionally, or hinder your style or natural expression. Continue to be yourself, and your faithful followers will continue their devotion.
So many people have found lockdown completely nonproductive. There is no motivation. We all have time but nothing else. Far too much uncertainty in the world and too much to process and contemplate. I have three young daughters and they have lost a lot of school time and don’t want to work at home anymore. But weirdly piano has been the focus. We have poured everything into it and the girls have played their classical piano pieces more than ever. Also watching some of your old videos here has been helpful to us. The world will get better. Maybe normal one day. Until then, yes - ‘Be kind and keep striving’ works just fine.
I'm a piano student, and the conservatory is taking everything from me and I feel like can't anymore. Luckily, I've started a project with some international friends to make covers, and it's making the piano more interesting and makes me practice more.
Thank you very much for the advice. Sometimes we just feel guilty because we need to practice more and more, but taking a break and do other things is just as necessary as practicing . Hope you're doing well Tiffany 🌻
It sounds like you went to a grieving period or depression. Everyone does and in these times, it's easy to do. It sounds like you turned it into a healthy learning experience and found your passion again. Thanks for being so open and sharing. It allowed me to think about where I am in this pandemic and what I need to do to find my passions again. Your amazing and I'm glad I found your channel. I play in a large church orchestra and we haven't played in months now. I've also traveled with an orchestra and played in Brazil and Africa. I really miss that! I posted a video of you playing a concert on our private blog and asked them to close their eyes, relax, and just soak it in! I'm a wind player and I've enjoyed your playing so much that I purchased a keyboard and started online lessons :-) I have everything set up to vlog my journey as a 57 year old who has played all his life (one note at a time) but wants to play the piano. I look at my camera sitting on my desk and just wasn't comfortable starting to vlog. I realize now that I just need to film and I'll put it out there when I'm ready. Thanks Tiffany!
@TiffanyPoon...you are amazing, Everyone needs to recharge. People who are hateful on social media, they have nothing better to do. They are not even worth the energy of your next breath. You are brilliant, you are thoughtful, you are compassionate. Please know that you are so loved and you are an inspiration to many. Your spirit is a bright light shining in the world. Please keep just being you. Because you are AMAZING! Truly.
You’re a very mature young lady. I have nothing but❤️for you! I’ve watched your playing for years and enjoyed every minute of it. Stay safe and keep being YOU!,,☺️
Tiffany, you are such a self-reflecting and resillient person. I am sure, you will overcome this crisis and continue your journey. I am following now your career and development since you were a little girl of 12years and I have always been impressed not only about the results but also about your ambition to go your way. Im sure you know better than me, that famous musicans in the past often had severe phases in their lifes when things went difficult paths. Look at Clara Schumann who hade great difficulties when falling in love with Robert. And in these times: you are not allone. Your fans stay beside you and will wait for you to return on stage. Regarding the stupid guys with hate-comments, I think, there is only o e advice: ignore them. The absolute majority love you. Please: Keep striving.
Not quite sure how I came across your VLOG, but I'm so pleased I did. Thank you for the wonderful fresh open , honest, and beautiful perspective you share. I will look forward to catching up on previous VLOGs. I'm not a musician, but love music , I have a guitar and a keyboard and love Piano. Was taught in my early years until the music teacher gave up on me. I read music badly, but did my best. However, between lessons I adapted what I should have learned, to my style, she used to say stop playing by ear read the music. I got wrapped on the knuckles with a ruler by the teacher, and it kind of discouraged me in my creative ability at an impressionable age. When no one is around I play around on the keyboard, and it feels great , how it sounds it another matter...but I do envy the skill and perfection you have strived for and achieved so early on. Refreshing VLOGs, thank you.
Tiffany indeed I have missed hearing your piano pieces of those classics.. I shall be awaiting your return to the playing we all live to hear. Hang in there and enjoy peaceful setting like the one in this video. Take care.
I love you so so much, Tiffany. Keep practicing healthy habits and coping methods and please take care of yourself. Your intuition and wisdom is a treasure.
In my 7th decade I am a new convert to piano and your new admirer. Just beginning to realize, as a musician, how much you have to give to your art, daily practice and full devotion. Peace. 🎹💜
As a professional myself, you are one of the greatest pianists in the world. You have all the gifts necessary to make this happen, you have a good and loving heart. Don't let the haters get to you. You have a lot of support out here. God Bless You!
I like seeing your practicing videos it keeps me motivated to practice. Don't give up! Don't let the noise in the hate world kill down your passion. You play so beautifully, that energy is contagious!
Before lockdown I had great clarity on what I wanted to achieve each day, I was productive, the passion was there and I generally felt good and exciting about things. After lockdown, I gradually developed bad habits, but at the same time I felt that I was on a journey of self discovery. I questioned why I liked doing things, whether I truly did like them, and these thoughts kept me up at night, or led me to do things that kept me up, hence creating bad sleeping schedules for example. I also spent a lot of money online, thinking I'd need them in this journey of self discovery. I bought lights for my room, a himalayan salt lamp, things that normally would make me guilty for spending money on, but instead I ended up feeling good. But it's weird because I don't feel like I know what I'm doing. I feel lost, unmotivated for sure, and completely stopping progress on making music, playing piano, writing, and studying languages. I still dont understand why I feel this way and it scares me a bit. I want to be reinspired.. maybe that means going to a new place, meeting a special person, sometimes it comes to you at unexpected moments and it's all I'm waiting for right now... These are just my midnight thoughts on the subject. Thanks for sharing your experience, some of it really did resonate with me. Take care, Tiffany.
ahh...I am really feeling this too. The whole school year I've been really diligent and motivated, but as soon as quarantine hit it was all of a sudden so hard to maintain the same level of discipline. I'm slowly losing grasp, and there are only more and more things that need to be done. I'm holding out for the summer so I can reset and start being productive again.
I understand not feeling like you know what you're doing and just being confused/frustrated with not making progress. It's hard, especially when you really do want to be productive but just can't find the energy or focus! I guess it's very easy to equate our identity with our productivity or with the things we do (music, writing, languages - I really enjoy doing those things too!). But we are much more than just these things. At the end of the day, I can only find my identity in my faith. I follow Jesus and believe that only in God we can really be satisfied and find our true identity. We've failed and sinned and look to things to satisfy us that can't fill us and we need God to fill and forgive us. I guess my encouragement to you would be to just try to read one of the Gospels during this time of self-discovery :) "but whoever drinks of the water that I will give him shall never thirst; but the water that I will give him will become in him a well of water springing up to eternal life.” - John 4:14 (NASB) God bless you and I hope that things get better for you soon!
Tiffany every person needs a break, I take breaks from art and piano all the time. When things go back to normal I would love to see you perform again!
Sometimes we need to take a break and smell the roses. Stop, slow down, enjoy life, and notice the beauty along the way. After that we are refreshed and feel renewed and we can start again.
I've realized, because of everything that's been happening in the world, everyone's life has changed drastically. I see my life completely differently and a lot of people I know see things from a different perspective. Its Growth. and with that growth comes realizations and understanding
Thank you for being so open and honest. I think it is perfectly normal right now for almost everyone to be feeling this way. When our social contact and livelihood is stripped away, it is pretty hard to feel normal. I am sorry you are feeling this way, and I hope you feel better.
You are vigorous naturally , that’s not changing much in the lockdown , you adapt to other outlets with easy. Schedule more adventures if you want more personal interactions 👏👏👏
Thank you, Tiffany. I am finding myself in that dark place just now. Your Vlog was a bit of comfort. When you are my age your fingers hurt all the time.
Thanks so much for sharing such personal a personal experience with us, and I think your new vlog endeavor is fantastic! I hope to continue supporting your work; you're an inspiration to all of us!
You are a wise women! I encountered a lot of people who were never able to understand what you found out, even with the help of others! I am deeply impressed!
I took a month off after passing my thesis defense to just binge watch Netflix and play video games. It was absolutely necessary for my sanity. My supervisor told me she spent two weeks playing video games after passing her defense. Rest is necessary for creativity ❤️ Also, I took several years off playing (regularly) the piano after having kids and the muscle ache is real and gets worse with age 😭
Thanks for sharing! I started playing this past January and it helps me with my anger. I'm afraid if i ever stop that i'll implode. I love your passion.
Thanks for sharing, Tiffany. It feels like a heart to heart talk. I think a lot of us have been suffering from this lockdown. But like you said, maybe we can learn a lot from this, and maybe get new inspiration.
Tiffany, thank you for your insights. I always watch your practice vlogs whenever I feel unmotivated and it helps me a lot. I hope you can reschedule all your concerts soon 😊
Can I just say something? I love you. You have encouraged me with all these stories and experiences shared on this channel to continue striving and trying to achieve what I dream. You have given me tons of advice that have helped me put myself on to the right path. You have helped me see the passion and love that someone could put on the things he wants to spend his life doing. I really admire you as a person and I think you are gorgeous in every aspect of yourself. If you thank Schumann for existing, then I thank you for existing too.
Stay as you are please. I didn't have the isolation from this media stuff at the right time. It got to me and I got the same thoughts and the same attitude, views. etc. but I was younger at that time and couldn't process the right decision to stay away from certain things. It took to my sanity and I became the lethargic and unmotivated guy, which led to a bad development through high school. Underperforming constantly since then. It all started with Facebook Commentaries under posts and I wasn't mentally prepared to just ignore things and not respond. Media is all distraction, especially "social" platforms. I admire you greatly!!! Keep your amazing attitude and work, it is soooo valuable and just know that you help people through depression just by being there and doing your amazing work :)
To everything there is a season. Breaks like this are not "standing still" - you are growing all the time, even if not directly in terms of pianistic growth. Of course, not all breaks are necessarily difficult ones such as this. Life informs art - and art, in turn, informs life. Your pain, and your joy, will find their way from your heart into your hands - and will speak not only to your own ears as you hear it, but ours - the world's as well. Keep your faith - and thank you so much for sharing with us! :-)
It's nice to know that I'm not the only one that has felt like this. I've felt so useless and then would feel guilty because I wasn't practicing or doing something productive all the time. Yet, I shouldn't feel bad for wanting to just relax and take a break because something that I love could turn into something I can hate.
Glad that you spend some me time for yourself.. Do whatever that is necessary to keep yourself happy. When the mood is right, doing anything will be motivating.. Including long hours of practicing.
The day I learned to walk away from hate was one of the best days of my life. 👍👍 been waiting to hear ya play some jazz. 😊 Great life lessons. Thank you!
Thank you for this video! We're happy you're returning. It is a lot more interesting to watch you as a person but not as a musician. This video brings very much positivity and light, especially with the forest on the background. You're truly making us happy!
Thank you for this. I've been in between a degree program and the work force for the past two years and I've experienced so much of what you've talked about regarding motivation and productivity. Whenever I had a lot of teaching work or shifts at a job that I hated, I would have no motivation or energy to practice and it made me very sad and resentful. I'd feel guilty for either being too tired to practice or not wanting to. It's something that isn't talked about a lot and I'm happy that you were honest and willing to share your experience.
One of the nice things in life is when you meet someone who can pass on the joy in their life. I ran into some of your videos I enjoyed your love of trying different pianos, having fun with playing pieces, etc. Thank you for taking the time to settle your life and whatever creativity you go on to.
I just stumbled across your channel today and I'm so glad I did! This video really spoke to me. I am a college student and in the past year I decided to change my major from piano performance. There were lots of factors that played into my decision and I often wonder if I did the right thing. I feel as if I had taken a break, I would still be majoring in music. I miss it, but now I feel that it is too late to switch back. I still play piano regularly although I don't have time to practice 4+ hours a day. You inspire me and I hope to find my way soon!
Giving you a virtual cuddle. Work/life balance is so important especially in terms of peace of mind ....and always difficult to entertain an active brain and keen intellect - as evident in all you work. Take it easy...and look forward to time with loved ones. Take care of yourself in the meantime
We love you! I’m not sure why this video made me feel so emotional, and I know it’s only a small chance that you see this, but I just want to say that you inspire me and mean a lot to me. Thank you for everything that you do. If you need to take a break, take it!
This is amazing!!! I love your description of all the feelings associated with taking some time off from practice and finding your way back. It’s hard to explain to people who haven’t been practicing music since early childhood. ❤️❤️ Thank you!!
This vlog really hits home for many pianists who struggle with motivation at different times. I am also in the NY area and when my group piano class abruptly ended at Juilliard (Evening division) before the shutdown, I felt a bit lost and stopped practicing mindfully. I would play just to play but my heart and mind weren’t there. I was glued to CNN and all the bad news, and it feels like it just keeps going. I think I stopped playing for a few days and forced myself just to keep my fingers active running through some Hanon and Bach Inventions. Didn’t even record much as my channel here on YT has been pretty dead lately. I find your videos inspiring and definitely makes me want to keep striving. Slowly I am getting back into my practice “groove” but so hard as I am worried about the state of the world and NY right now. I’m in one of the higher risk groups so now it’s an extra layer of stress whenever I leave my house :-(
Simply put, this is added to your long list of being yet another one of your best vlogs, just filled with some of the most important and necessary lessons in life of which we all need to be aware-why breaks and rests are necessary, why taking time to fall into boredom is not a bad thing and why pausing a few moments here and there to watch a chipmunk or a turtle or a duck is a necessary part of good health -physical and mental-and growth, that these are the ingredients that help fuel us on our journey. One of the most salient take home points is what we do when we grow and are confronted with negativity. I and many others obviously have been witness to some of that going on directed at you and you teach us by example, through genuine realism and authenticity that you bring to this vlog which touch us and allow that lesson to be gently absorbed and internalized. It is good to know how to accept compliments and criticisms even though some of the latter can be without true merit or foundation and are not meant to be constructive but just put out there because the individuals are not happy with themselves or not at peace. It is difficult to love and celebrate the successes of another if I can’t celebrate myself. There is much literature out there that proposes that our outward actions reflect how we feel about ourselves more than the target we are after. Tiffany, it has been a real privilege to have discovered you, your work, and to follow along on your path. I appreciate your many personal pearls of wisdom and especially your momentary observations of animal life all around you. Thank you...so much...for brightening my life and those around you. You make such a difference! Good luck on all of your upcoming projects.
Tiffany, I think you’re an incredibly brave person for putting your craft and thoughts and videos out there for public consumption. I realize that you’re an artist so that putting work products out there and performing for others is something you’re used to by now, but I think all artists deep down also crave acceptance and appreciation so all this hate recently may have cause you to be upset. Those haters will hate, some people just need to hate others so they feel good. I know easier said than done, but don’t let them affect you. You are an inspiration to so many of us:)
Tiffany, thanks for the video! As a pianist, I related to a lot of the things you talked about, and I really loved how you said that you need to be a person before you are a musician, it was just the reminder I needed today!
I’m so glad you’re back. I was having Tiffany withdrawals. We all need to take a break now and then. I’m an adult piano student, and I want you to know that you have been such an inspiration to me. Your artistry just amazes me.. not just on the piano, but on your TH-cam videos. Where do you come up with your ideas? I cracked up the first time I saw you videoing under your piano! Don’t listen to the haters.. they’re just jealous. I know it’s hard to do, and can be hurtful. Unfortunately, the more success you achieve, the more the haters are going to hate. Please try not to let them hurt you. You’re awesome. I don’t know if you realize the positive impact you have on so many, including me. When I struggle with a piece, I watch one of your performances and get inspired. I know I’ll never get as good as you, but I can strive! :)
Thank you - you inspire me! 🥰 I really feel what you said about passion and productivity (I also play the piano 😉). I also made the experience, that taking a break is essential sometimes, but for me it can be hard to allow myself being "lazy" and unproductive without feeling bad. I love and appreciate, that you talk about this and share your experience. I hope, that more people will realise the importance of being passionate and taking breaks if you need to. 😊❤️
Hi! The vlog project is out: th-cam.com/video/kyHyeeSfstg/w-d-xo.html
Thank you so much for being part of it ❤
Love your videos, personality. If there is a time gap again. Maybe purchase quality vitamins (MSM, Collagen etc) before joints become stiff or even for ongoing ease to play.
I started playing piano when I was 10. My mom wanted me to play an instrument of some kind - I had perfect pitch, after all, so I might as well put it to good use. I lucked out with an amazing teacher who guided me through my first 8 years on the instrument and helped me achieve things I thought impossible, including learning a piece by Rachmaninoff, which I never thought I’d be able to do when I first started. I had difficulty shutting down my “ear” and depending on my “sight” if that makes any sense.
Moving onto college, I had no intention of majoring in music. I wanted to go to medical school, so I should major in the sciences. Ruskin Cooper changed that. He was an adjunct professor of piano in my college’s department of music, and he ignited an academic passion for music that matched the fervor of my playing. With him, I learned my first concerto.
I had to take some time off from school because I got sick. He died from a heart attack while I was away. With him died my light. I hadn’t realized that in him I saw the father that I never had. I didn’t touch the piano for six years after he passed away.
I’m slowly making my way back to my instrument. It’s taken a long time because every time I sat down and tried something as simple as technical exercises, my mind would flood with memories of our lessons together. Maybe having lessons with someone else would help to ease the grief, but a strange part of me feels that I would be betraying him by doing that. I know I haven’t healed, but I want to. I sound horrible now, but I won’t give up. There are embers still within me, and they’ll burn bright again someday.
Edit (fifteen months later): Remember how I mentioned that I got sick? I’ve since been diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis. Now I know WHY I got sick. Life isn’t always easy, is it? But knowing I’m probably going to permanently lose my ability to play at some point forced my ass back onto the bench like lightning. I don’t play nearly to the same level as I did before, but I’m now making strides to enter the music business as a composer and livestreamer on Twitch. I’m DOING something with my music. My light is back. I’m as happy as can be given the circumstances. Looking back, knowing what I know now, I think Dr. Cooper would be really proud of what I’ve tried to make out of a crappy situation.
I have trouble ignoring my inner sense of music in favor of written music. You're not alone.
The "sound horrible" comment is unfair. Learn to enjoy making mistakes again. Keep your expectations fair and reasonable. What brought you to play is what will bring you back if you let it happen.
My advice or opinion may or may not ring true with you, but what would he wish you to do? He taught you things to carry his torch, to keep part of him alive forever through you and your music. Grief is natural, but after so long, I'm sure you could work through transmuting that grief and pain into passion. They're only a few letters off anyway. Jokes aside, you playing beautiful music again is what your teacher would have wanted, is it not? You'll be honoring him and his memory by keeping him alive in some way every time you sit down. He can be with you in spirit and those memories may be painful at first, but with a change in perspective towards a more positive viewpoint, maybe it would help?
Pardon the long ramble, I wish you the best on your musical journey! He was not only helping teaching you piano, but now is teaching you how to be a stronger and more resilient person to deal with this struggle as well.
TuttiTunes lol I doubt you have perfect pitch. Perfect pitch comes when you start learning an instrument and receive ear training when you are less than 5 or 6 years old.
Bruh that was touching
For whatever reason, this is such a relaxing, calming, and peaceful vlog. It's great to see you're out about and under the sun. Thank you and stay safe!!
Hello fellow patreon user
Not a big mystery - the Duke + Tiffany + a beautiful spring day in a wonderful park.
Hints of a new language forming through reflections with the Duke?
I played classical piano from the age of 4, competed internationally, and it consumed my entire life. As I got older and into high school, piano became such a burden. I lost my passion and enjoyment for it and was merely practicing to win competitions. I stopped competing a year ago, and am just getting back into practicing a few times a week, and it feels so much better than before. Thank you for sharing your story!
I am happy for you . You found yourself and truth . Now think of all the hassles you won't have to ruin your health . Train , airplane Routine , not eating hotel food not suffering food poisoning every city you go to , not dealing with concert and hall managers and nasty critics and perfection demanding other musicians . You can't create music or replenish love of creating music with all that . how Argerich ,Barenboim and so many others means there is more than just having a great ear , musicainship , technique etc. to being a traveling musician . I think it's more important to teach for those who really know what it means to play even one note musically . Enjoy Music . you found your freedom . I used to practice 12 and more hours but i had no idea what I was doing and ididn't have honest , demanding teachers . It took me a long time to let go . Now I write music . Thinking about going back and getting a doctorate in composition . Anyway , I was glad to read your "restorative " testimony .
Wish you the best luck and experience! Don't force it onto you tho:)
Enjoy yourself while you still can! You still have like 80 more years to play piano... Take care and stay healthy!
This is an interesting remark. Looking at Tiffany's hands I noticed that she has a very strong life energy, and the potential to live up to a high age.
@@andresgunther bro thats just creepy
@@西宮硝子-k8l Not at all. Tiffany 'talks so much with her hands' in her vlogs that it doesn't take a big effort to catch a glimpse of her hand lines.
Ever heard of Palmistry? I only have a basic knowledge in that, but Tiffany has very long and well defined "life lines" on both hands. Life lines are the creases that run around the mound shaped by the base of your thumb, and towards the wrist. They are called so because - according to hand palm readers - their depth indicate the intensity of the individual's life energy, and their length are an indicator of how long (potentially) that person's life is going to be.
Some people might call that nonsense; I leave it here as trivia 😜
Andres Gunther People with common sense would call it nonsense, yes.
@@andresgunther bro what?
Without knowing YOU personally, after watching your numerous vlogs, concerts and interviews I am ABSOLUTELY certain that you are one of the NICEST human beings on this planet. I'm 55, I've been around but whenever I see you it is like a breath of fresh air. Wish you all the best!!!
The Classical world needs more people like you: positive and not driven by ego. Thank you!
Aside from the fact that we truly admire Tiffany's talents, I'm certain that I can speak for everyone by saying that this lady is surely holistically fabulous. Kudos to your parents who brought you up so well. Keep being an inspiration. We've got your back ☺️ Stay safe
I am very annoyed that somebody has been mean to Tiffany.
It's been a few months for me since the last time i watched Tiffany's video
The reason why i disappointed on Tiffany is because i was at my edge of giving up on piano.
I was learning Liebeslied Kreisler/Rachmaninoff and Tiffany just started to play it.
I've been practicing that piece for almost a year and Tiffany did it in couple of days.
And i sent comments to Tiffany on TH-cam asking for tips and encouragement.
Tiffany didn't reply or liked my comment but someone else did and that someone said "you need to keep practicing, if you haven't nailed it, it's because you're not practicing enough" And Tiffany give a like on that comment
Thats why i disappointed on Tiffany
Just think with your mind if you're really down what do you need? Encouragement or judge mental from other people?
Christopher Jonathan you sound like you expect the world to revolve around you. You’re upset because she didn’t reply or like your comment, and because you’re jealous because she was able to learn a piece quicker than you? She’s a concert pianist who’s spent much more time practicing so of course she’ll learn things quicker; not to mention she has a life too. You should appreciate that someone bothered to reply to help, her liking it shows she agreed with the reply. And why does it matter if she likes your comment or not? Are you that insecure that you need validation? If you really need help just get a teacher; there’s also plenty of great instructional videos for piano. Sorry I just really don’t understand this comment...
@@christopherjonathan817 O eres muy joven o no has comprendido el sentido del "like" de Tiffani. Ella, simplemente, estuvo de acuerdo con lo que te recomendaba el otro lector.
viendo otros Vlogers he comprobado que es imposible contestar 300 diarios.
Either you are very young or you have not understood Tiffani's "like" sense. She simply agreed with what the other reader recommended.
Seeing other Vlogers I have found that it is impossible to answer 300 newspapers.
Christopher Jonathan here’s my question. Why do you play the piano? For narcissistic things? To show how goody good you are? Or to inspire. If it’s that. Your not doing it. You don’t need people to rely on. You have to rely on yourself. You can’t be mad at Tiffany. Tiffany always worked by herself right? She was always in a room alone with a piano playing it. Figuring out ways. If she did so, you can too. You can’t be mad. But you can use that mad to fuel your practice. Don’t be mad. Not when you can do something good.
Christopher Jonathan If she likes that comment, it’s because she agrees with it. What more do you need from her? Practicing more or figuring things by yourself is something everyone needs, and no social media person has a obligation to help you just because you asked for it.
This was so bloody helpful I can’t even begin to tell you. I have been so uninspired to play since the pandemic. I miss playing with all my colleagues and I had so much work lined up. When it all went away, it felt like something inside me died. I still tried to practice, but mostly I just kept beating myself up and feeling incompetent that I wasn’t using all the extra time to “Uber-practice”. Everybody on TH-cam has gotten so creative with performances from their home, or doing the split screen live shows. All completely brilliant and performances for which I am truly appreciative. But it just made me feel like some kind of lazy slacker. Your words and inspiration made me realize there’s something on the other side of this. It may not be what we once knew. It may not even be in front of a live audience. But internally, I will always know that I was born to play. To play without judgement of myself or from anyone else. For just the sheer joy of making music. Things will get easier, better. Thank you so much for pointing that out to me.
Give yourself more credit 😊 You made this realization ❤️
I am a music professor at a major university. To hear your astute and eloquent comments is both inspiring and for classical music, enduring!
I loved how you just sat down and talked in the nature and showed some random calm video footage in between.
Right? It's so calming :)
"How do you express your life experiences musically if you do not live life first?" Deep question musicians ask themselves...
They spend so much time practicing that life falls by the wayside, yet they need those experiences to inject nuances into their music, otherwise, it's just robotic playing.
To what extent do you all agree or disagree?
I have this exact issue, my music just feels empty because I can't put too many experiences in there to give it life...
It's easy to fall into the trap of "more practice makes music better"
And while your technique might get better the music suffers in other ways.
Agree, to full extent.
Couldn't agree more. Music is art, and you need to absorb the world around you and be in touch with your feelings in order to be more expressive. Speaking for me, I noticed a true development in how I express myself through music when I realized that, and stopped pursuing 8+ hours practicing and all that.
@@umcirculoperfeito I've pushed my music to the side, because I'm never happy with the tracks anyway and all my friends don't wanna listen to anything I make, it's always "oooh, yeah I'mma listen to it later tonight" and then they don't.
So what's the fucking point of making music when everybody keeps bashing it or ignoring it, saying it's shit or it's too difficult...
Everybody always goes on about how they want something different, then I give em something different and they say they don't like it cause it's different, it's bullshit and I can't find any joy in my music anymore, I just feel bitter and alone.
I have 40 instrumentals that are just gathering dust because nobody wants to listen to it and the feedback I get is totally useless, but I can't stop making music else I might as well stop existing all together.
@@deathbunny3048 your friends are a very small audience...in a larger audience (maybe here on YT?) there will be for sure a lot people who will be able to enjoy your music
How could anyone be mean to such a sweet face? Love your enthusiasm . You give me a fresh perspective when I myself get discouraged. Thanks for being yourself!
We all have moments in life where our mind and body force us to step back from our work to have a look how we did, where we are, re-set ourselves, and then go on from there. In popular language this is called "re-charging batteries" or "Re-Energize ourselves". Thanks for sharing your thoughts with us... and the beautiful views of a NYC park in early summer!
We are all in this together. We are all greatful for having you make us all these helpful, enjoyable and beautiful videos! Please stay safe and put yourself first, be kind and keep striving! ☺🎼❤
As a semi-professional pianist always considering how far I should keep pursuing piano, this was really helpful and interesting to hear, thank you 🙏, especially that’s it’s ok to take a break sometimes and not always be striving to the next goal
I have a question... Did you go to conservatory?
@Lucas Zflenki no I didn’t, but I’ve studied privately with a great teacher for a very long time, with whom I still study today - he definitely inspires me a lot. I've had sooome successes in various international competitions, but there are so many great pianists!
So it's possible to be a semi-professionnal pianist? Do you mean you play concerts from time to time but also have another job? Isn't that impossible to have enough time to practice in order to have a level where you can perform concerts?
@@Gamerapha :: Generally, it is possible to play in public and also do something else for a living, but concerts like those with big posters and hundreds of listeners, perhaps not. But think of going to a community outside "bigcity", longing for true music to come by, live, so close there's no loudspeakers, just the instrument - imagine "chamber music societys" and all - they thrive here and there. Churches, too, if they are not too narrowminded, will welcome a musician.
@Gamerapha mm it’s definitely hard to balance time and focus amongst different careers, especially as piano at this level really requires consistent practising/performing etc. It’s hard enough in general for full-time pianists where so few pianists can really attain a ‘performing career’ so to speak - most teach in conservatories on the side also. But as with everything you can put into it as much as you want 😕
I’m trying to juggle med-school and piano and for me it really is a matter of prioritising one over the other at certain times. Twice a year, I have major exams coming up, I know I have to step away of the piano for, say, 2 weeks. Or at least not play 5 hours a day and maybe just casually play for 20 minutes with the pure intention of relaxing. And that’s totally fine. You just have to be aware of it, so that you don’t feel like crap. Your day only has 24 hours and sometimes, it’s challenging to fit everything you want in it.
Medical school will destroy your piano skills. You will have to find the most efficient exercises and drills to optimize your practice opportunities.
@@frugaldoctor291 I will have to disagree. Medical school per se doesn’t screw up your technique. I get what you meant though. It’s about smart praticing.
If you choose to do anything on the side of music, you know you will not become the next Kissin or Horowitz. It’s a fact that you either accept or you don’t. But then you can’t do anything aside of music. (And even then, your chances are close to zero.)
Sincere appreciation for balancing medical school and piano. I tried and failed during my post graduation in medicine.awaiting to do as I'm completing my PG.
Sonja Medical school or not -its all about smart practicing vs volume of playing.
@@soohapark6215 I’m European :D
Came across your channel recently and have been binge watching your videos. Finally picked up the piano again for the first time in about two years. Managed to push through to the Chopins g minor ballade for the first time after I gave up halfway through two years ago! Glad I caught this before heading to bed. Thanks for being a motivator :)
Dear Tiffany, as a professional musician myself this post was extremely helpful in processing the pressure and overwhelm that has been blocking me for years and holding me back from my passions and favourite things to do in music. You are tremendously patient, wise and kind with yourself - not sure how you've been able to do that but I'm thankful you are and I'm thankful for your sharing.
Love this vlog ms Poon!
My father died of cancer. Even his last words was a lesson.
' You can only do your best, nobody has the right to ask more!'
In time I learned, and remembered, the lesson that shifting pace is a crucial part.
ms Poon! No guilt! Accept and know you're all good! ❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️
I discovered your chanel 1 month ago. I have watched all your vlogs at a slower speed, with English subtitles, ---- since the age of 8, I want to learn the piano .... I have now 65 and for 2 years I have lessons on the net with a Quebec professor, and a professor from France- and in winter a Mexican teacher ..... I love it even if it is difficult.
I want to thank you for everything you do, because you encourage us to continue. your personality so endearing brings me joy each time I discover another video .... I make myself a coffee and I taste your vlog! Thank you very much for sharing your pianist life with us, I love it!
I wish you a long and beautiful life filled with music and that all your dreams can come true!
Your blogs are very therapeutic. Thank you Tiffany! I hope you realize that you are an inspiration for a lot of young musicians out there. Take all of this at your own pace 👍
I have studied music daily since 4 years old. However I have been suffering from depression and hearing you describe your experience makes me feel as if Im not totally alone. I have been uploading practice sessions although the last month has been hard for me. Hearing you talk has given me motivation to start again. Thank you ♥
Big lessons be learned by young people over this, it’s a shocker but so necessary, to be who you are and especially who you will be.. you All are so lucky to have this opportunity , it’s a world shaker upper.
In the past for 10 years l stopped to play piano, l forgot notes. After 10 years l started again to play. It was difficult but now l am very happy🙂👍🌹🎶🇬🇷
I stopped to play piano after the death of a relative. I dont had the courage even to listen music. After years l missed piano l start to play again. Music is very valuable for me 🙂🌹
The 10 years with no piano l study Theology and have a relationship. I regret that I lost 10 years of my life with no piano.
I start again alone to remember all the notes and play piano after 10 years
SEE !!!!!!!! Even the chipmunk says, awhhh! Don't say bye! The video ended and we miss you already. Lots of luv ! from this German-Canadian in Canada : ) ♥ Thank you for the beautiful Richard Wagner piano performance and explanation of that apparatus. Enjoy this summer! Rest, and enjoy the beautiful summer weather!
Go with the flow, Tiffany. We're all on a strange and mystical journey. The music you love, that we all love, comes to us from far beyond, and gets woven into our experiences of life. You're on a voyage of discovery. Keep travelling and we'll walk with you.
Tiffany, thank you so much for sharing your talent, humanity and most intimate insights. You are still quite the unique TH-cam personality, so open and candid, letting us participate in your life as though we were your closest friends. It is greatly appreciated.
Just remember when you see hate, that it says much about the person it comes from, but nothing at all about you. Do not allow it to set you back emotionally, or hinder your style or natural expression. Continue to be yourself, and your faithful followers will continue their devotion.
So many people have found lockdown completely nonproductive. There is no motivation. We all have time but nothing else. Far too much uncertainty in the world and too much to process and contemplate. I have three young daughters and they have lost a lot of school time and don’t want to work at home anymore. But weirdly piano has been the focus. We have poured everything into it and the girls have played their classical piano pieces more than ever. Also watching some of your old videos here has been helpful to us. The world will get better. Maybe normal one day. Until then, yes - ‘Be kind and keep striving’ works just fine.
I'm a piano student, and the conservatory is taking everything from me and I feel like can't anymore. Luckily, I've started a project with some international friends to make covers, and it's making the piano more interesting and makes me practice more.
我喺香港人，很年輕的时候就去了加拿大讀書。依家系烏克蘭宣教。我平時亦需要找一些時間甚麽都不做，讓自己可以安靜休息，其實是讓自己可以走得更遠的路，在這段時間也有一些反思及想想以後怎樣走，和作甚麽。謝謝你的分享，也多謝在我需要休息的時候可以聽你彈琴。繼續努力。你父母都是有福的人，可以有如此乖女兒，獨立又努力奋斗，一定好開心啦！
加油，Tiffany.
Thank you very much for the advice. Sometimes we just feel guilty because we need to practice more and more, but taking a break and do other things is just as necessary as practicing . Hope you're doing well Tiffany 🌻
It sounds like you went to a grieving period or depression. Everyone does and in these times, it's easy to do. It sounds like you turned it into a healthy learning experience and found your passion again. Thanks for being so open and sharing. It allowed me to think about where I am in this pandemic and what I need to do to find my passions again. Your amazing and I'm glad I found your channel. I play in a large church orchestra and we haven't played in months now. I've also traveled with an orchestra and played in Brazil and Africa. I really miss that! I posted a video of you playing a concert on our private blog and asked them to close their eyes, relax, and just soak it in! I'm a wind player and I've enjoyed your playing so much that I purchased a keyboard and started online lessons :-) I have everything set up to vlog my journey as a 57 year old who has played all his life (one note at a time) but wants to play the piano. I look at my camera sitting on my desk and just wasn't comfortable starting to vlog. I realize now that I just need to film and I'll put it out there when I'm ready. Thanks Tiffany!
Always love your attitude towards music, but more broadly speaking, towards life. Stay well and take care!
@TiffanyPoon...you are amazing, Everyone needs to recharge. People who are hateful on social media, they have nothing better to do. They are not even worth the energy of your next breath. You are brilliant, you are thoughtful, you are compassionate. Please know that you are so loved and you are an inspiration to many. Your spirit is a bright light shining in the world. Please keep just being you. Because you are AMAZING! Truly.
You’re a very mature young lady. I have nothing but❤️for you! I’ve watched your playing for years and enjoyed every minute of it. Stay safe and keep being YOU!,,☺️
Tiffany, you are such a self-reflecting and resillient person. I am sure, you will overcome this crisis and continue your journey. I am following now your career and development since you were a little girl of 12years and I have always been impressed not only about the results but also about your ambition to go your way.
Im sure you know better than me, that famous musicans in the past often had severe phases in their lifes when things went difficult paths. Look at Clara Schumann who hade great difficulties when falling in love with Robert.
And in these times: you are not allone. Your fans stay beside you and will wait for you to return on stage.
Regarding the stupid guys with hate-comments, I think, there is only o e advice: ignore them. The absolute majority love you.
Please: Keep striving.
Not quite sure how I came across your VLOG, but I'm so pleased I did. Thank you for the wonderful fresh open , honest, and beautiful perspective you share. I will look forward to catching up on previous VLOGs. I'm not a musician, but love music , I have a guitar and a keyboard and love Piano. Was taught in my early years until the music teacher gave up on me. I read music badly, but did my best. However, between lessons I adapted what I should have learned, to my style, she used to say stop playing by ear read the music. I got wrapped on the knuckles with a ruler by the teacher, and it kind of discouraged me in my creative ability at an impressionable age. When no one is around I play around on the keyboard, and it feels great , how it sounds it another matter...but I do envy the skill and perfection you have strived for and achieved so early on. Refreshing VLOGs, thank you.
Tiffany indeed I have missed hearing your piano pieces of those classics.. I shall be awaiting your return to the playing we all live to hear. Hang in there and enjoy peaceful setting like the one in this video. Take care.
What a nice, honest, thought provoking reflection... thank u for sharing your inner restoration journey with us. Add oil Tiffany!!
I love you so so much, Tiffany. Keep practicing healthy habits and coping methods and please take care of yourself. Your intuition and wisdom is a treasure.
In my 7th decade I am a new convert to piano and your new admirer. Just beginning to realize, as a musician, how much you have to give to your art, daily practice and full devotion. Peace. 🎹💜
As a professional myself, you are one of the greatest pianists in the world. You have all the gifts necessary to make this happen, you have a good and loving heart. Don't let the haters get to you. You have a lot of support out here. God Bless You!
I like seeing your practicing videos it keeps me motivated to practice. Don't give up! Don't let the noise in the hate world kill down your passion. You play so beautifully, that energy is contagious!
Before lockdown I had great clarity on what I wanted to achieve each day, I was productive, the passion was there and I generally felt good and exciting about things. After lockdown, I gradually developed bad habits, but at the same time I felt that I was on a journey of self discovery.
I questioned why I liked doing things, whether I truly did like them, and these thoughts kept me up at night, or led me to do things that kept me up, hence creating bad sleeping schedules for example. I also spent a lot of money online, thinking I'd need them in this journey of self discovery. I bought lights for my room, a himalayan salt lamp, things that normally would make me guilty for spending money on, but instead I ended up feeling good.
But it's weird because I don't feel like I know what I'm doing. I feel lost, unmotivated for sure, and completely stopping progress on making music, playing piano, writing, and studying languages. I still dont understand why I feel this way and it scares me a bit. I want to be reinspired.. maybe that means going to a new place, meeting a special person, sometimes it comes to you at unexpected moments and it's all I'm waiting for right now...
These are just my midnight thoughts on the subject.
Thanks for sharing your experience, some of it really did resonate with me. Take care, Tiffany.
ahh...I am really feeling this too. The whole school year I've been really diligent and motivated, but as soon as quarantine hit it was all of a sudden so hard to maintain the same level of discipline. I'm slowly losing grasp, and there are only more and more things that need to be done. I'm holding out for the summer so I can reset and start being productive again.
I understand not feeling like you know what you're doing and just being confused/frustrated with not making progress. It's hard, especially when you really do want to be productive but just can't find the energy or focus!
I guess it's very easy to equate our identity with our productivity or with the things we do (music, writing, languages - I really enjoy doing those things too!). But we are much more than just these things.
At the end of the day, I can only find my identity in my faith. I follow Jesus and believe that only in God we can really be satisfied and find our true identity. We've failed and sinned and look to things to satisfy us that can't fill us and we need God to fill and forgive us. I guess my encouragement to you would be to just try to read one of the Gospels during this time of self-discovery :)
"but whoever drinks of the water that I will give him shall never thirst; but the water that I will give him will become in him a well of water springing up to eternal life.” - John 4:14 (NASB)
God bless you and I hope that things get better for you soon!
Tiffany every person needs a break, I take breaks from art and piano all the time. When things go back to normal I would love to see you perform again!
Sometimes we need to take a break and smell the roses. Stop, slow down, enjoy life, and notice the beauty along the way. After that we are refreshed and feel renewed and we can start again.
I've realized, because of everything that's been happening in the world, everyone's life has changed drastically. I see my life completely differently and a lot of people I know see things from a different perspective. Its Growth. and with that growth comes realizations and understanding
Thank you for being so open and honest. I think it is perfectly normal right now for almost everyone to be feeling this way. When our social contact and livelihood is stripped away, it is pretty hard to feel normal. I am sorry you are feeling this way, and I hope you feel better.
You are vigorous naturally , that’s not changing much in the lockdown , you adapt to other outlets with easy. Schedule more adventures if you want more personal interactions 👏👏👏
Just look at your video will calms me down. There's still hope in life. Thank you for your genuine words.
"If you must, REST. But never GIVE UP" : )))
I love that!
Thank you, Tiffany. I am finding myself in that dark place just now. Your Vlog was a bit of comfort. When you are my age your fingers hurt all the time.
Hi ! glad to see u again, and thank you for being so transparent and honest. Wish u the best Tiffany :)
Thanks so much for sharing such personal a personal experience with us, and I think your new vlog endeavor is fantastic! I hope to continue supporting your work; you're an inspiration to all of us!
You are a wise women! I encountered a lot of people who were never able to understand what you found out, even with the help of others! I am deeply impressed!
Please don’t ever change - we love you just as you are! Keep" THRIVING"
You are an amazing woman. And your comments here reflect your sensitivity and intelligence. A perfect way to come back after an epiphany.
I took a month off after passing my thesis defense to just binge watch Netflix and play video games. It was absolutely necessary for my sanity. My supervisor told me she spent two weeks playing video games after passing her defense. Rest is necessary for creativity ❤️ Also, I took several years off playing (regularly) the piano after having kids and the muscle ache is real and gets worse with age 😭
i never knew that was a thing! im so scared rn 😟😟
Man. I yearn for that defense day. Taking that binge far in advance of that day, but all in hopes of surviving til then.
You're a musical genius =)
Nothing but love for you.❤️
Thanks for sharing! I started playing this past January and it helps me with my anger. I'm afraid if i ever stop that i'll implode. I love your passion.
Thanks for sharing, Tiffany. It feels like a heart to heart talk. I think a lot of us have been suffering from this lockdown. But like you said, maybe we can learn a lot from this, and maybe get new inspiration.
Tiffany, thank you for your insights. I always watch your practice vlogs whenever I feel unmotivated and it helps me a lot. I hope you can reschedule all your concerts soon 😊
Can I just say something?
I love you. You have encouraged me with all these stories and experiences shared on this channel to continue striving and trying to achieve what I dream. You have given me tons of advice that have helped me put myself on to the right path. You have helped me see the passion and love that someone could put on the things he wants to spend his life doing. I really admire you as a person and I think you are gorgeous in every aspect of yourself. If you thank Schumann for existing, then I thank you for existing too.
Stay as you are please. I didn't have the isolation from this media stuff at the right time. It got to me and I got the same thoughts and the same attitude, views. etc. but I was younger at that time and couldn't process the right decision to stay away from certain things. It took to my sanity and I became the lethargic and unmotivated guy, which led to a bad development through high school. Underperforming constantly since then. It all started with Facebook Commentaries under posts and I wasn't mentally prepared to just ignore things and not respond. Media is all distraction, especially "social" platforms. I admire you greatly!!! Keep your amazing attitude and work, it is soooo valuable and just know that you help people through depression just by being there and doing your amazing work :)
To everything there is a season. Breaks like this are not "standing still" - you are growing all the time, even if not directly in terms of pianistic growth. Of course, not all breaks are necessarily difficult ones such as this.
Life informs art - and art, in turn, informs life.
Your pain, and your joy, will find their way from your heart into your hands - and will speak not only to your own ears as you hear it, but ours - the world's as well. Keep your faith - and thank you so much for sharing with us! :-)
Great said, such a good way to put it :)
It's nice to know that I'm not the only one that has felt like this. I've felt so useless and then would feel guilty because I wasn't practicing or doing something productive all the time. Yet, I shouldn't feel bad for wanting to just relax and take a break because something that I love could turn into something I can hate.
Glad that you spend some me time for yourself.. Do whatever that is necessary to keep yourself happy. When the mood is right, doing anything will be motivating.. Including long hours of practicing.
Good to have you back Tiffany.
The day I learned to walk away from hate was one of the best days of my life. 👍👍 been waiting to hear ya play some jazz. 😊
Great life lessons. Thank you!
Thank *you*
Thank you for this video! We're happy you're returning. It is a lot more interesting to watch you as a person but not as a musician. This video brings very much positivity and light, especially with the forest on the background. You're truly making us happy!
Thank you for this. I've been in between a degree program and the work force for the past two years and I've experienced so much of what you've talked about regarding motivation and productivity. Whenever I had a lot of teaching work or shifts at a job that I hated, I would have no motivation or energy to practice and it made me very sad and resentful. I'd feel guilty for either being too tired to practice or not wanting to. It's something that isn't talked about a lot and I'm happy that you were honest and willing to share your experience.
Best vlog you've done! One to come back to. And your backdrop was perfect. Sweetest nature ever. Matched up so well with your topic.
Thank you for sharing your thoughts with us
Congratulations you have fanatic fan who always support you even when you did the wrong thing.
Lovely, You bring a new sound to me and more, I am SO happy for your thoughts .... you are a very wise girl. ooda.
Just found your channel, and I'm so grateful I did! This video is very special. You have such immense honesty and integrity in your eyes
One of the nice things in life is when you meet someone who can pass on the joy in their life. I ran into some of your videos I enjoyed your love of trying different pianos, having fun with playing pieces, etc. Thank you for taking the time to settle your life and whatever creativity you go on to.
You inspire me alot Tiffany...you are my crush pianist..and these words you just said have been a big motivation to me
I just stumbled across your channel today and I'm so glad I did! This video really spoke to me. I am a college student and in the past year I decided to change my major from piano performance. There were lots of factors that played into my decision and I often wonder if I did the right thing. I feel as if I had taken a break, I would still be majoring in music. I miss it, but now I feel that it is too late to switch back. I still play piano regularly although I don't have time to practice 4+ hours a day. You inspire me and I hope to find my way soon!
Giving you a virtual cuddle. Work/life balance is so important especially in terms of peace of mind ....and always difficult to entertain an active brain and keen intellect - as evident in all you work. Take it easy...and look forward to time with loved ones. Take care of yourself in the meantime
We love you! I’m not sure why this video made me feel so emotional, and I know it’s only a small chance that you see this, but I just want to say that you inspire me and mean a lot to me. Thank you for everything that you do. If you need to take a break, take it!
This is amazing!!! I love your description of all the feelings associated with taking some time off from practice and finding your way back. It’s hard to explain to people who haven’t been practicing music since early childhood. ❤️❤️ Thank you!!
You’re full of honesty and passion❤️ I hope everything goes well in your life, stay safe and healthy🌹
It's nice to know you're taking care of yourself well,Tiffany..please be well💖
This vlog really hits home for many pianists who struggle with motivation at different times. I am also in the NY area and when my group piano class abruptly ended at Juilliard (Evening division) before the shutdown, I felt a bit lost and stopped practicing mindfully. I would play just to play but my heart and mind weren’t there. I was glued to CNN and all the bad news, and it feels like it just keeps going.
I think I stopped playing for a few days and forced myself just to keep my fingers active running through some Hanon and Bach Inventions. Didn’t even record much as my channel here on YT has been pretty dead lately. I find your videos inspiring and definitely makes me want to keep striving. Slowly I am getting back into my practice “groove” but so hard as I am worried about the state of the world and NY right now. I’m in one of the higher risk groups so now it’s an extra layer of stress whenever I leave my house :-(
Glad to see you are out and about again Tiffany, Enjoy!
Ignore the haters, like you said they just drain you of your energy.
Great to have you back!!.. missed your videos.. Needed some motivations!!!!😋😋😋
You're honestly one of the nicest people I have ever seen. Thank you! ^^
Simply put, this is added to your long list of being yet another one of your best vlogs, just filled with some of the most important and necessary lessons in life of which we all need to be aware-why breaks and rests are necessary, why taking time to fall into boredom is not a bad thing and why pausing a few moments here and there to watch a chipmunk or a turtle or a duck is a necessary part of good health -physical and mental-and growth, that these are the ingredients that help fuel us on our journey. One of the most salient take home points is what we do when we grow and are confronted with negativity. I and many others obviously have been witness to some of that going on directed at you and you teach us by example, through genuine realism and authenticity that you bring to this vlog which touch us and allow that lesson to be gently absorbed and internalized. It is good to know how to accept compliments and criticisms even though some of the latter can be without true merit or foundation and are not meant to be constructive but just put out there because the individuals are not happy with themselves or not at peace. It is difficult to love and celebrate the successes of another if I can’t celebrate myself. There is much literature out there that proposes that our outward actions reflect how we feel about ourselves more than the target we are after. Tiffany, it has been a real privilege to have discovered you, your work, and to follow along on your path. I appreciate your many personal pearls of wisdom and especially your momentary observations of animal life all around you. Thank you...so much...for brightening my life and those around you. You make such a difference! Good luck on all of your upcoming projects.
Tiffany, I think you’re an incredibly brave person for putting your craft and thoughts and videos out there for public consumption. I realize that you’re an artist so that putting work products out there and performing for others is something you’re used to by now, but I think all artists deep down also crave acceptance and appreciation so all this hate recently may have cause you to be upset. Those haters will hate, some people just need to hate others so they feel good. I know easier said than done, but don’t let them affect you. You are an inspiration to so many of us:)
Tiffany, thanks for the video! As a pianist, I related to a lot of the things you talked about, and I really loved how you said that you need to be a person before you are a musician, it was just the reminder I needed today!
Thanks for checking in with us. Yes, haters gonna hate. Don't ever take them personally.
Tiffany, I also had the same binge-watching crisis. Thank you for the video. It resonates so much.
you are a wonderful person, not only talented artist but also bright mind. and beautiful.
I’m so glad you’re back. I was having Tiffany withdrawals. We all need to take a break now and then. I’m an adult piano student, and I want you to know that you have been such an inspiration to me. Your artistry just amazes me.. not just on the piano, but on your TH-cam videos. Where do you come up with your ideas? I cracked up the first time I saw you videoing under your piano! Don’t listen to the haters.. they’re just jealous. I know it’s hard to do, and can be hurtful. Unfortunately, the more success you achieve, the more the haters are going to hate. Please try not to let them hurt you. You’re awesome. I don’t know if you realize the positive impact you have on so many, including me. When I struggle with a piece, I watch one of your performances and get inspired. I know I’ll never get as good as you, but I can strive! :)
So beautiful Ms. Poon! Thank you for sharing your thoughts and experience with us~ xx
Thank you - you inspire me! 🥰 I really feel what you said about passion and productivity (I also play the piano 😉). I also made the experience, that taking a break is essential sometimes, but for me it can be hard to allow myself being "lazy" and unproductive without feeling bad. I love and appreciate, that you talk about this and share your experience. I hope, that more people will realise the importance of being passionate and taking breaks if you need to. 😊❤️
It was really nice to hear about your experience of when you stopped practicing piano. Also I loved how you said “Passion equals productivity.”