Channel 4 - The Piano

Season 3 - Episode 2 - Brighton Train Station

The Inside Scoop: Behind the Scenes of Channel 4’s The Piano

My journey with The Piano began with a phone call, followed by a recorded audition, and then an in-person audition and interview —with the production team also held in Brighton. From the very start, the process was both exciting and uplifting.

I arrived at Brighton Station early on a Monday morning, the summer sun casting a warm glow over the platforms. As I stepped off the train and looked down the platform, there it was—the ‘crown jewels’ in all its glory: a beautiful upright Steinway piano, encircled by barriers, with both a piano tuner and polisher tending to it. My heart leapt in that moment, filled with anticipation for the day ahead.

I made my way to the holding room in a nearby hotel, where the film crew briefed us on the day’s schedule and fitted us with microphones. A replica of the Steinway piano on the platform was available for us to warm up on, providing a wonderful opportunity to meet the other players filming for the episode. We were a diverse group of all ages and backgrounds, instantly connected by our shared love for the piano.

Each of us was taken individually into the station to film an interview, sharing our personal stories and musical influences. I spoke about learning the piano from a very young age, overcoming health and confidence barriers, and how dogs and the piano have always been together as my greatest loves.

The filming operation was impressively orchestrated. The sound check was brief, and I felt a bit anxious not knowing how my vocals would blend with the piano in that vast space. Claudia Winkleman must have sensed this, as she called out, “She sounds amazing already!”—a comment that instantly boosted my confidence. She also complimented my heels, calling them “fabulous,” a true queen moment!

Each performer played their piece twice, with precise cues to start.

The piece I played was a reimagined piano vocal cover of Guns N' Roses’ Sweet Child o’ Mine — a heartfelt twist on a rock anthem that truly resonated with the train station staff and film crew alike.

To my surprise, Mika appeared in bright turquoise over the top of the piano! He exclaimed how the piece was one of his favourite songs and told me that he felt there were good piano players and good singers on the show, and that I had brought both. He really understood me as a musician and my influences. What an honour and confidence boost it was to receive such praise from an internationally acclaimed pop star.

My family and friends, including my beloved dog Henry, were there to support me, sharing in the joy of the experience and mingling with the crew and other participants. After a fulfilling day, I returned to my hotel to relax, preparing for the second day of filming.

The following day involved filming the final segment for the episode. Although I had already met and spoken with Mika and Claudia, it was a pleasure to meet the new judge, Jon Batiste. The winners of the episode were announced—a detail I’ll keep under wraps for now!

Mika and myself at Brighton Station!

Claudia WInkleman and myself at Brighton Station!

Later, the venue and date for the final concert of Series 3 were announced: the majestic Glasshouse International Centre for Music in Gateshead. All participants were invited to attend as special guests for the evening. In October 2024, my sister and I flew up to Newcastle for a truly memorable weekend together. It was my first visit, and we discovered many delightful spots, including the incredible view from the Baltic Centre for Contemporary Art.

The final concert of Channel 4’s The Piano

The concert was enthralling and deeply moving, showcasing all the finalists from the series. Although filming had taken place back in July, it wasn’t confirmed who would make the final cut until earlier this year, as the production filmed with a considerable number of players than could be featured in each episode.

I managed to get a photo of the theatre before the show started and the producers came out to tell everyone in the auditorium to not share who the winner would be. It was an understandably sell-out show but everyone there was sworn to secrecy! Mika came out and got the front rows where all the players were sat, to stand up for a clap.

After the show, we all headed over to the apltly named ‘Piano & Pitcher’ bar for drinks. It was a great opportunity also to meet players from the other episodes. It didn’t take long before someone spotted an abandoned dusty piano in the foyer which became the beginning sn the end of the Piano After party !! Great balls of fire, singing together and drinking ensued and it has been an amazing end to an amazing evening, spent with the best of new friends. The end to a fantastic and very unique experience. We have vowed to make sure there is a Piano Party 2 in Brighton and Brighton will forever hold a special place in my heart that’s for certain. ❤️🎹