Date/Time
Date(s) - August 30, 2026
9:30 am - 5:30 pm
We are delighted to announce that we will be returning to the Birmingham Conservatoire on Sunday 30th August for our Annual Conference 2026.
This year’s theme ‘Beyond the Notes’ will explore creative approaches to piano teaching and performance, with a particular focus on broadening musical understanding beyond the written score. Beyond the Notes is where the real magic of music happens. The notes on the page matter – but music truly comes alive through interpretation, imagination, dynamics, phrasing and personal artistic conviction. The EPTA Conference 2026 will examine all of this and more through an inspiring programme of talks and workshops. Topics include improvisation, sight-reading, interpretation, rhythm, playing without notation, Kodály, and “sound before symbol”.
The day aims to offer fresh ideas, enhance teaching practice, and support ongoing professional development. You will also have the opportunity to attend a special recital by three winners of the EPTA UK Piano Competition 2026.
Conference Programme
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Performer/Speaker Details
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Lucinda Mackworth-Young – No Music! No Problem! Renowned teacher, lecturer, and author Lucinda Mackworth-Young shares practical techniques to help pianists play confidently without notation, drawing on her extensive experience in piano pedagogy and her accessible, engaging approach to music education. |
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10 -10.30am (includes welcome)
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10.30-11am
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Dr Robin Harrison – Historically Informed and Multi-Style Piano Improvisation Dr Robin Harrison, founder of The Maestro Online, explores how improvisation—from historical keyboard traditions to jazz, gospel, and contemporary styles—can reconnect pianists with creativity and place improvisation back at the heart of piano education. |
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11 – 11.25am
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TEA BREAK: 25mins
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11.25 – 11.55
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Rachel Kilby – London College of Music Examinations Launches New 2026 Piano Syllabus An overview into the new LCME Piano Syllabus 2026. |
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11.55 – 12.35pm
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Roger Hamilton – The Notation Is Not the Music: Lessons from History Conductor, harpsichordist, and historical performance specialist Roger Hamilton explores how insights from historical performance practice can deepen our understanding of piano repertoire and inspire more expressive, informed performances. |
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12.35 – 1.05pm
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Paul Harris – I Got Rhythm! Renowned music educationalist, teacher, and author Paul Harris presents an engaging and practical session exploring fresh approaches to teaching and performing rhythm through fun, accessible activities designed to inspire both teachers and students. |
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1.05 -2.00pm
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LUNCH: 55mins
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2.00pm
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RECITALS 3 x 15mins Competition Winners 1) TIANTIAN 2) SHENGROU MEI 3) Christopher Hawkins
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2.50 – 3.35pm
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Alethia Ngo – Teaching Kodaly and Ying Ying Ng – Sight-Reading for Beginners Alethia Ngo and Ying Ying Ng introduce Poco’s Kodály-inspired approach to early music education, exploring how singing, movement, musicianship skills, and sound-before-symbol learning help young pianists develop confidence, understanding, and expressive sight-reading abilities. |
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3.35 – 4.00pm
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TEA BREAK: 25mins
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4.00 – 4.40pm
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EPTA UK Students and Young Professionals Committee – The Young Professional This session explores the opportunities and challenges facing early-career piano teachers, introducing EPTA’s Student and Young Professional initiatives and providing a valuable forum for discussion, guidance, and shaping future support. |
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4.40 – 5.10pm
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Penelope Roskell – The Heart of the Matter EPTA UK Chair Penelope Roskell reflects on how teachers can help students connect with the heart and essence of music, while also sharing insights into the upcoming EPTA International Conference 2027 and opportunities to get involved. |
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5.10- 6.00pm
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Closing Address & Last Visit To Shop
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The event is open to both EPTA members and non-members, as well as students, and aims to provide an inclusive and welcoming environment for all attendees. Alongside the educational sessions, there will be opportunities to connect with colleagues, explore resources, and engage with exhibitors.
Ticket prices are as followed:
- Early Bird Member: £60
- Early Bird Non-Member: £70
- Standard Member: £70
- Standard Non-Member: £80
- Student: £30
Tickets
Click here to book your ticket.
Additional Information
We are also pleased to confirm that the Hotel and Conference Centre, Aston University has kindly offered us an exclusive bedroom rate for conference attendees.
All information, including details on how to book your discounted room, is available to download here.
