Stephen Ridley comes from a small village in South Yorkshire, England, with a population of just 40 people. He began playing the piano at the tender age of two. Following the death of his father when he was a teenager, his family was plunged into deep poverty, a circumstance that profoundly shaped his drive. Despite these challenges, he excelled academically, graduating from Durham University with a triple first-class honors degree in Philosophy, Politics, and Economics. This led to a prestigious and financially rewarding job at a world-renowned investment bank. However, the security of his banking career came at a great personal cost, leaving him feeling numb and miserable. In a defining moment of clarity, he walked out of his job for good. Just 30 minutes later, he bought a £100 piano from a thrift store, pulled it onto a London street, and began to play. The spontaneous performance drew smiling crowds, and for the first time in years, he felt a sense of joy and purpose. This single act of rebellion launched an incredible international music career. Ridley went from playing on the street to performing in over 60 countries. His unique journey has seen him play for world leaders, at exclusive events like the Monaco Grand Prix, and alongside A-list artists on superyachts and in palaces. He has also shared his music in children's hospitals, orphanages, and shanty towns, and performed at the largest outdoor concert in Uzbekistan's history. Beyond his live performances, Stephen is passionate about making music accessible to everyone. He founded an online piano academy to help students worldwide experience the power and joy of music. Translating his passion into a thriving enterprise, his courses have generated over $60 million in sales, empowering countless others to find their own connection to the piano. For More Info:https://RidleyAcademy.comhttps://instagram.com/stephenridley/