The Hanon exercises have been a staple of the practice routines of virtuoso pianists for over a century. Originally developed by Charles-Louis Hanon, “The Virtuoso Pianist in Sixty Exercises” is widely celebrated for its ability to enhance finger strength, dexterity, and endurance. No matter if you are a beginner first exploring the Hanon exercises, or …
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The piano and synthesizer are two of the most iconic and versatile instruments in music, each with a unique role in shaping modern sound. However, they differ in many ways. This article will highlight the key differences between a synthesizer vs piano, helping you decide which one suits your musical needs better. What is a …
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Piano duets bring a new dynamic to practice, especially for beginner pianists. Playing with a partner not only strengthens your musical skills but also adds a collaborative and engaging element to your routine. Easy piano duets are a great starting point for beginners, offering a balanced mix of melody and accompaniment while helping to improve …
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Piano accompaniment plays a crucial role in music, providing a strong, supportive base for soloists, ensembles, and vocalists. It adds depth and texture to a performance, complementing the main melody while enhancing the overall sound. Mastering piano accompaniment requires learning various techniques and patterns that seamlessly blend with the lead part, creating a cohesive musical …
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The world of piano music is expansive and constantly evolving. Unlike the traditional classical repertoire that has long been a staple, contemporary piano introduces a fresh, dynamic, and innovative way of engaging with the instrument. Spanning styles from minimalism to avant-garde, this genre has gained significant popularity, attracting both beginners and experienced musicians alike. Its …
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Domenico Scarlatti, one of the most inventive composers of the Italian Baroque, left an indelible mark on keyboard music with his groundbreaking sonatas. Known for pushing the boundaries of harpsichord technique, Scarlatti’s sonatas are full of daring twists, virtuosic flair, and emotional depth, keeping both pianists and audiences hooked centuries later. In this article, we …
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György Ligeti is one of the most influential and innovative composers of the 20th century. His works continue to inspire and challenge musicians around the world. In particular, Ligeti’s piano etudes are among the most famous of his contributions. They are both technically demanding and artistically challenging. Ligeti’s etudes are beyond dexterity exercises. They take …
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Piano drills are an excellent way to build your foundational skills at the piano. These exercises have been practiced by generations of pianists and enhance muscle memory, precision, and musical expression. In this article we will explore the role of piano drills and check out how they can help beginning and experienced pianists refine their …
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Digital trends and developments are continuing to have an outsized effect on music and the lives of musicians. One example of the benefits of this trend is the digitization of sheet music. Digitizing your sheet music helps preserve the longevity of your music collection and provides you with flexible access and use of your aging …
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Hand rotation is an important yet often overlooked element of piano technique. Hand rotation involved the subtle and controlled rotation of the hands to facilitate more smooth and efficient playing. Understanding and implementing proper hand rotation can enhance your playing, reduce strain on your arms, and increase your speed and accuracy. In this article, we …
Hand rotation: what are single and double rotations at the piano? Read More »
Rubato is a subtle and powerful technique in music. Derived from the Italian work rubare meaning “to steal”, rubato is an expressive technique where musicians deviate from the strict timing of a piece, creating a more emotional interpretation. Rubato has been a cornerstone of musical expression since at least the Romantic era and is essential …
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Microtones are a unique and intriguing aspect of music that many musicians may not be aware of. Unlike traditional Western music, which typically divides the octave into twelve equal parts (semitones), microtones involve intervals smaller than a semitone. This allows for a richer and more nuanced exploration of pitch, creating unique textures and emotional expressions …
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