Insider Weekly has announced Ridley Academy as the recipient of its Best Online Piano Course award, recognizing the program’s innovative approach to music education that has transformed nearly forty thousand students across more than 100 countries.
Founded by world-class pianist Stephen Ridley, the academy has distinguished itself through an emotionally immersive methodology that breaks from conventional music instruction. Rather than focusing on memorizing notes or analyzing theory, the program emphasizes creativity, joy, and personal expression, enabling complete beginners to play meaningful music within weeks through a process requiring only minutes of daily practice.
The recognition comes as Ridley Academy continues to expand its global reach after several years of established operation. The program attracts a diverse student base ranging from children and teenagers to working professionals, retirees, and even piano teachers seeking to enhance their own approaches to the instrument.
Stephen Ridley’s unconventional path shapes the academy’s philosophy. After leaving behind successful careers in investment banking and technology, he began his musical journey playing piano on the streets with no home or safety net. This fearless pursuit of artistic expression eventually led to performances for royalty in Dubai, elite audiences including Elon Musk, and celebrities such as the Kardashians.
“People don’t need more information. They need more inspiration. When you learn to play music from your heart, it’s not about getting it ‘right’ — it’s about feeling alive again,” Ridley explains, capturing the essence of his teaching philosophy.
The flagship online piano program includes hours of cinematic video lessons, original compositions, and mindset training, all personally led by Stephen Ridley. Students also gain access to live Q&A sessions, community groups, and mentorship programs that provide additional support throughout their musical journey.
Student testimonials consistently highlight the transformative nature of the experience. “Life-changing. I never thought I could play the piano like this. Ridley Academy didn’t just teach me notes — it gave me confidence and purpose,” shares one student. Another notes, “I tried so many methods before this. Ridley Academy is the only one that finally worked. It made me fall in love with playing.”
The program’s impact extends beyond musical skill development. “What makes Ridley Academy different is that it’s not just about playing music — it’s about playing from the heart. It helped me connect with a part of myself I thought I had lost,” explains a student, while another describes it as “not just a piano course — it’s a journey. I’ve grown as a person just as much as I’ve grown as a musician.”
Many students report progressing from never having touched a piano to performing for their families, churches, and even on stage within just a few months of starting the program. This rapid progress stems from the academy’s focus on awakening creativity rather than drilling technical exercises.
The award from Insider Weekly acknowledges Ridley Academy’s position as a leader in reimagining music education for the digital age. By prioritizing emotional connection and self-expression over traditional conservatory methods, the academy has created what it describes as a global movement that returns creativity, joy, and voice to people through music.
As the program continues to evolve and reach new students worldwide, Ridley Academy maintains its commitment to an approach that views music not as a technical skill to master, but as a means of personal transformation and authentic expression. The Best Online Piano Course award recognizes this unique contribution to making piano education accessible, engaging, and deeply meaningful for students at every level.