Nature offers wonderful contrasts. Dramatic red flowers emerging from rich, black earth. Subtle shades of green in a deep forest. Pianistic artistry also involves dramatic and subtle contrasts. As Dr. Faber points out in Sunshine, Raindrops from Technique & Artistry Level 2B, it is the balance between melody and harmony that guides the ear and conveys the “message.” We can help our students find the role of arm weight to “sing” the melody. We can present a delicate surface touch for accompanying chords. When technique and artistry are further developed, it is balance within the hand that delivers the sublime melody of Beethoven’s Pathétique over shades of contrast.
6 replies on “Shades of Contrast”
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Thank you for the artistic explanation and performance of this piece.
I always look forward to your remarks regarding the music from your series. I have found all your music so teachable and enjoyed by the young students.
Thank you for the artistic explanation and performance of this piece.
I always look forward to your remarks regarding the music from your series. I have found all your music so teachable and enjoyed by the young students.
Perfect for my students to refer to during the week when practicing at home.
Perfect for my students to refer to during the week when practicing at home.
Thank you! My students love the technique books. I actually have one student working on “Sunshine and Raindrops” this week!
Thank you! My students love the technique books. I actually have one student working on “Sunshine and Raindrops” this week!