A Passion for Music and Helping Others
Alan Gregory, a self-taught pianist from Wigan in Greater Manchester, has dedicated his life to providing free and subsidised piano lessons to those who might not otherwise have the opportunity to learn. At 64 years old, Alan’s journey into music began with a deep desire to play the piano, but financial constraints prevented him from taking formal lessons as a child.
Despite this, Alan taught himself to play, passed his music exams, and eventually became a professional concert pianist. Now, he is giving back by offering affordable music education to others, ensuring that no one is excluded from the world of music due to financial barriers.
“I want to do the same for other people,” Alan said, reflecting on his motivation. “Music lessons are very expensive normally, so we desperately try to keep it as low as possible.”
Alan has been teaching piano at Pianos, Pies and Pirouettes in Scholes for over 20 years. He offers four free lessons to new students, after which each lesson costs £7.50. This approach allows individuals from all backgrounds to access music education without the burden of high fees.
A Life Dedicated to Teaching
Alan’s commitment to teaching is driven by both personal experience and a deep sense of responsibility. After the passing of his wife, Winifred Anne Gregory, from cancer at the age of 48, he found solace in music. “Piano is what saved me,” he explained. “I want to do the same for other people.”
His own childhood was marked by financial hardship. “I come from a family who were very poor originally,” Alan recalled. “For me, the piano was instantly an attraction.” His rich cousin had access to piano lessons, and Alan would often beg his parents to buy him a piano, but they couldn’t afford it.
Eventually, he acquired a large upright piano with candles still on it and half the keys missing. Despite its imperfections, he fell in love with it. “I loved it,” he said.
Alan also shared how his wife and he were unable to have children, which was a significant loss for them. However, the students he teaches have become like family to him. “The people I teach have become my family as such,” he said. “I treat them hopefully as I would my own family, and certainly they treat me like that, so that’s fabulous.”
Inspiring Future Musicians
Tegan, a 16-year-old student from Scholes, has been learning piano with Alan for the past six months. She described him as “great” and said he had “kickstarted my career in piano.” Tegan’s passion for music has grown significantly under Alan’s guidance, and she now aspires to become a cruise ship musician.
“My nan told me I could have lessons and my eyes just lit up,” Tegan said. “It was the best thing anyone’s ever said to me, and I’ll never forget it.” The experience has inspired her to explore the world through music.
Alan’s dedication to teaching extends beyond just the technical aspects of piano playing. He encourages his students to dream big and pursue their passions. “It’s just everything I’ve ever wanted and everything I will always want,” Tegan added.
A Legacy of Generosity
Alan’s work is not without challenges. He works long hours, often teaching up to 60 pupils a week. “I work 70 to 80 hour weeks,” he said. “That’s why I’ll still be teaching piano when I’m 103— I’ve spent all my personal pension money on this.”
Despite the financial strain, Alan remains committed to his mission. “I want to do the same for other people,” he said. His story is a testament to the power of music and the impact one individual can have on the lives of many.
Alan’s efforts continue to inspire not only his students but also the wider community. His journey from a self-taught pianist to a dedicated teacher highlights the importance of accessibility in music education and the lasting impact of generosity.
