Left-Hand Legend: Teen Nails Grade 8 Piano Solo and Makes History!

Freya Terris, a 17-year-old from Lisburn in County Antrim, has made history by passing her Grade 8 piano exam with distinction, playing entirely with her left hand. Freya, who has shoulder-length light brown hair and a warm smile, is not just any young musician. She is the first pianist that the Associated Board of the Royal Schools of Music ABRSM knows of to achieve this grade using only her left hand. This accomplishment is even more impressive because two years ago, Freya suffered a long-term injury that made it impossible for her to use her right hand on the piano.

At first, Freya thought the pain in her right hand would go away, but it did not. While waiting for her hand to heal, she and her teacher started exploring music written just for the left hand. Freya practiced hard and slowly built up her left-hand skills. After two years and an operation on her right hand, she realized she might never play with both hands again. Still, she was determined to finish her Grade 8 exam. She contacted ABRSM to ask if she could take the test with only left-hand pieces. The exam board was supportive and sent her a list of music written for the left hand. Freya chose her pieces and began preparing for the big day.

Freya describes herself as stubborn and worked very hard, even when it was tough. Sometimes she felt frustrated because she could not play the music she used to love. She took breaks from lessons to avoid getting too upset and to remember why she loved playing piano. Her teacher, Rory Dowse, helped her research other pianists who played with one hand, like Nicholas McCarthy and Leon Fleisher, so she would not feel alone. After the exam, Freya waited anxiously for the results. When she found out she had passed with distinction, she was thrilled. Her family, friends, and teachers were all proud of her. Freya’s mother, Susan, said her daughter’s determination helped her succeed. Freya’s achievement also inspired ABRSM to create a special list of one-hand pieces for all grades, so more people can try. Freya, who has been a Young Musician finalist twice, now plans to study music at university and continue her journey as a pianist.