Join Alan Rusbridger, the former Guardian editor who rekindled his love for piano, Emma Kennedy, a best-selling author and Lego collector, and Mark Gershinson, a golf enthusiast who left property investment. They explore how hobbies enrich our lives and foster self-discovery. From the therapeutic power of play with Lego to the emotional benefits of returning to musical passions, this conversation emphasizes that it's never too late to pursue passions and embrace the joy of being an amateur.
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Rusbridger's Piano Journey
Alan Rusbridger, after giving up piano at 16, rediscovered his love for it in his late 30s.
He attended a piano camp and was inspired by other rusty players performing complex pieces.
insights INSIGHT
Piano's Cognitive Benefits
Playing piano, even briefly each day, can improve focus and mental preparedness.
It utilizes different parts of the brain than other demanding tasks, offering a valuable mental shift.
question_answer ANECDOTE
Conquering Chopin
Rusbridger decided to learn Chopin's Ballade in G minor, a challenging piece even for professionals.
Inspired by another amateur, he dedicated 18 months to learning it, embracing the amateur spirit.
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In 'Play It Again', Alan Rusbridger recounts his journey to master Chopin's Ballade No. 1 in G minor, a challenging piece, while navigating the pressures of being the editor of The Guardian during significant news events. The book explores themes of discipline, passion, and personal growth through music. Rusbridger shares his experiences, strategies, and insights from renowned pianists and experts, highlighting the transformative power of music in his life.
The literal translation of amateur is ‘lover of’ so why is it a word so often steeped in derogatory overtones? Why, when we’re asked for our hobbies, are we inclined to diminish their status in our lives? Our hobbies make us human. From pottery, to geo-guessing; orienteering to stamp collecting; it is in these small, often quiet, building blocks of life that we so often find true meaning and connection.
In this episode, Kamal Ahmed is joined by the editor of Prospect Magazine, and amateur pianist Alan Rusbridger; Senior Partner at Slaughter and May and composer Steve Cooke; comedian, writer and Adult Fan of LEGO Emma Kennedy; and, ex-property developer turned golfer extraordinaire Mark Gershinson to discuss the joy of part-time pursuits and being an amateur.
Join us for a conversation that seeks to reinvigorate the concept of the hobby and renew it with it’s true meaning: hobbies, from the run of the mill to the absurd, are about our passions; they are about self-discovery; and about building a life that fulfils us and provides contentment. Whether you’re a relentless hobbyist or have been prevaricating about booking that first violin lesson, this episode is for you: remember, it’s never too late to start.
For more information about Y TREE please visit https://www.y-tree.com/
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