A Day in the Life, Curiosity, and a Genius in the Making?

Welcome back to my blog, and thanks again for following along with these waffles so far...I’ve really started to enjoy reflecting and sharing! This week, I wanted to talk about something I find fascinating: the early spark of curiosity in children and, in particular, Alfie’s growing fascination with everything music...

practising hand independence? ;)

Friends and Family often remark, “Of course he’s going to be musically gifted, just like his dad!” While I appreciate the sentiment and smile, I tend to downplay it. I don’t believe in talent as something we’re simply born with. To me, it begins as a spark of interest that grows with time and nurture, and A LOT of practise...however, I do believe that we inherit the interest - or maybe it's just inevitable when you're raised in a house where music is everywhere!

It's so humbling to see how Alfie naturally gravitates toward music, I’ve noticed an honest, unfiltered curiosity - an early interest in sound, rhythm, and melody. And no, I’m not here to declare Alfie the next Mozart. Right now, he’s simply pressing piano keys with pure enthusiasm (and very little organisation) - just like most kids. But watching his fascination unfold feels special, not because of where it might lead, but because of the joy it brings to his world right now.

Music is woven into the fabric of our home, from morning to night. Breakfast begins with Classical FM humming in the background - a quiet, calm start before the day’s chaos. Then there’s the lively “dance hour” before Katie heads to work. Alfie has his little “dancing spot” in the living room where he wiggles to the beat of whatever soundtrack is on, whether it’s a musical number or pop ballad. His current favourite is the soundtrack from Wicked, particularly 'The Wizard And I.' He also enjoys attempting to replicate Elphaba's famous riff in "Defying Gravity (see here). His smile and energy in these moments could light up the whole house.

Later in the day, when Alfie returns home, music greets him like an old friend. I’ve usually been composing or practicing, and as soon as he hears me playing the piano, he rushes to join me. Sitting on my lap, he’ll mimic the notes I play, attempting to match pitches with an adorable determination that never fails to make me laugh (even if it derails my work for a few precious moments). He also enjoys pushing my hands away from the keys, just so that he can occupy that space and do his best Thelonious monk…! The most incredible thing is that he can be sat at the piano and totally distracted by the act of ‘performing’, and this is surely something to keep a close eye on ;) Music accompanies us at teatime, followed by a final evening dance session, and then gently winds down the day with more soothing sounds. Alfie often falls asleep to the calming melodies of Night Light (it’s a family favourite, of course).

What stands out to me most about these moments is how much music enriches our everyday lives. Through Alfie’s eyes, music is magical, its pure joy, wonder, and connection. It’s a sanctuary for all of us - a way to express happiness, curiosity, and silliness. Seeing music through Alfie’s eye’s takes me back to my own childhood, reminds me of the magic, how it sparks curiosity, creates bonds, and fills the air with something so profoundly beautiful. Whether or not Alfie grows up to be musical doesn’t matter to me. What matters most is how music has brought him - and all of us - a sense of pure love and connection.

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