This etude doubles as an arpeggio exercise as well as a preparation for the hand-crossing pattern within the “Maple Leaf Rag.” Philip is taught this etude by rote and quickly has it memorized so that he is able to focus on his technique. As he increases the tempo, he becomes…
Technique and Artistry
In this video, Nancy coaches Philip on his 16th note, 2-octave contrary motion scales. The 8th note added in between allows the student to be mindful of relaxing the wrist while playing fast 16th notes. Often times, scale practice focuses solely on fast fingers, however we see artistry displayed along side…
Nancy sparks Vivian’s imagination as she describes the imagery within the music — the cherry blossoms floating upwards on a breeze, matching the echoes of music in the upper register. Vivian practices the ostinato in the left hand and sings the melody first before playing the piece hands together. Vivian’s singing…
In keeping with the Year of Technique and Artistry, Nancy and Randall Faber are pleased to present Hanon-Faber, The New Virtuoso Pianist—a fresh, new approach to the 150-year-old keyboard exercises of Charles-Louis Hanon. Why This Edition? Concert artists recognize that finger strength is subordinate to the coordinated use of fingers, wrist…
Technique Secrets are the essential pianistic movements, gestures and touches — a scaffold of progressing skill development. We see wide variety in students in the type of music they wish to play, in the level of commitment they bring to practice, and in coordination and listening abilities. However, one thing…
Lesson Book, Primer Level, Pg. 44, Dance Band In this video, Randall Faber describes and demonstrates the use of arm weight as an important technique to be taught from the early lessons at the Primer level. This piece titled, The Dance Band, strategically offers repetition and review as it corresponds…
Level 2B, Lesson Book, Pg. 26 Watch as Nancy cultivates Philip’s musical artistry through affirming his expressive performance of The Skater’s Waltz. To the student, Piano Adventures® implies an exciting exploration. To the teacher, Piano Adventures® implies a mission and mindset which puts the student’s personal development in the fore.…
Level 1, Technique and Artistry, Pg. 6, Wrist Float-Offs Ending a phrase with a gentle lift is a technical “secret” that will last a lifetime. Suggesting that a balloon lifts the wrist and guides it to float up and off captures the idea of flexibility and relaxation. Trying the “wrist…
Level 1, Technique and Artistry, Pg. 12 Vivian’s popcorn is crisp and bouncy. The white keys are a “stovetop” sure to produce “super” staccatos, whether loud or soft. A simple F-A-C accompaniment keeps the beat steady and reinforces the staccato. It also leads to an improvised exchange between “talking” popcorn…
Level 1, Technique and Artistry, Pg. 8 The difference between legato and staccato is not just a matter of technique. Playing each touch also involves listening. Quick changes between staccato and legato and phrases in which the touches vary prepare the hand and the ear to respond in different settings.…