A remarkable 17-year-old from Lisburn, County Antrim, has just achieved a Grade 8 piano distinction despite playing the entire repertoire with only her left hand. Freya Terris's incredible feat marks a historic first for the Associated Board of the Royal Schools of Music (ABRSM), who have never before seen a pianist pass this advanced qualification under such circumstances.
Two years ago, a devastating hand injury and subsequent surgery left Freya unable to play piano with both hands. Initially heartbroken at the prospect of losing her cherished hobby, she began exploring music specifically written for the left hand with her teacher, Rory Dowse. This period of adaptation surprisingly honed her left-hand technique, which would eventually prove crucial in achieving her Grade 8.
Determined to succeed, Freya contacted ABRSM to explore modifying the exam pieces. The board responded positively, providing a bespoke list of left-handed compositions that sparked both excitement and pioneering endeavour. Despite moments of frustration at being unable to play her previous two-handed repertoire, Freya's perseverance – supported by breaks to rekindle her passion – ultimately led to her success.
Her teacher, Rory Dowse, saw Freya's injury as an opportunity for creative problem-solving, drawing inspiration from single-handed pianists like Nicholas McCarthy and Leon Fleisher. Freya's mother, Susan Terris, hailed her daughter's unwavering determination, saying Freya consistently uses setbacks to propel herself forward.
Freya's achievement has had a profound impact on the wider musical community and directly influenced ABRSM's curriculum development. The exam board had already been considering a one-handed music syllabus for Grades 1-5 but Freya's successful collaboration and evident demand for higher-grade adaptations have prompted them to publish a new, more comprehensive syllabus.