00:00 Intro

02:00 Chapter 1The jumps in the left hand

11:15 Chapter 2 The passage in the right hand

15:30 Chapter 3 Support of the melodic line

27:38 Chapter 4 Pedaling

Piano ornaments can transform a simple melody into a captivating musical journey, but understanding and executing them can be a challenge. From trills to mordents, appoggiaturas to glissandos, join us at Jeff's Pianist Academy as we dive into the world of these beautiful musical decorations. Whether you're a beginner curious about the basics or an advanced player looking to refine your technique, this guide has something for everyone.

In this detailed tutorial, we'll cover:
- The most common piano ornaments and how to identify them in your score
- Historical context and how the interpretation of ornaments varies by musical period
- Practical examples from famous compositions to illustrate each ornament
- Tips on incorporating ornaments smoothly into your playing

Plus, we'll share some insider knowledge on the role of ornaments not only as decorative elements but also as essential tools for expressing the character of a piece.

Are you tired of the same old Bach pieces? Discover 5 Hidden Gems of Baroque Music Beyond Bach!

Ever felt like you've heard all there is to hear from Johann Sebastian Bach? Think again! Dive into the depths of Baroque music with us as we explore five incredible compositions from the era that aren't by Bach but are just as mesmerizing. From the dance music of Jean-Baptiste Lully for Louis XIV to the captivating 'Le coucou' by Louis-Claude Daquin, prepare to be amazed by the diversity and richness of Baroque music. Whether you're a seasoned classical music enthusiast or new to the genre, these pieces will add something special to your playlist.

In this video:

- Discover Jean-Baptiste Lully's 'Gavotte', a piece that made Louis XIV dance.
- Experience the emotional depth of Johann Pachelbel's Chaconne in F minor.
-Be moved by Handel's 'Passacaglia' from his 'Suite No. 7'.
- Explore one of Domenico Scarlatti's 555 piano sonatas.
- Listen to the playful 'Le coucou' by Louis-Claude Daqu...

Are you tired of the same old Bach pieces? Discover 5 Hidden Gems of Baroque Music Beyond Bach!

Ever felt like you've heard all there is to hear from Johann Sebastian Bach? Think again! Dive into the depths of Baroque music with us as we explore five incredible compositions from the era that aren't by Bach but are just as mesmerizing. From the dance music of Jean-Baptiste Lully for Louis XIV to the captivating 'Le coucou' by Louis-Claude Daquin, prepare to be amazed by the diversity and richness of Baroque music. Whether you're a seasoned classical music enthusiast or new to the genre, these pieces will add something special to your playlist.

In this video:
- Discover Jean-Baptiste Lully's 'Gavotte', a piece that made Louis XIV dance.
- Experience the emotional depth of Johann Pachelbel's Chaconne in F minor.
- Be moved by Handel's 'Passacaglia' from his 'Suite No. 7'.
- Explore one of Domenico Scarlatti's 555 piano sonatas.
- Listen to the playful 'Le coucou' by Louis-Claude Daquin and h...

1. Embrace the Character of the Farmer: The piece is imbued with the spirit of a farmer returning home, tired yet content from a day's work. This should reflect in your playing - not fast, but brimming with energy. Imagining the farmer's journey can help you find the right tempo and dynamics.

2. Pay Attention to the Left Hand Melody: Unlike many compositions, 'The Happy Farmer' features the melody in the left hand. Achieving a legato touch and ensuring the melody sings through requires careful attention to phrasing and finger strength. Think of the farmer's voice and let it guide your playing.

3. Fingering and Technique: The piece presents opportunities to experiment with fingering, especially in passages where traditional rules might be bent for expressive purposes. Whether it's using the thumb on black keys or sliding between notes, choose the fingering that allows for the most fluid and comfortable play.

4. Balance Between Hands: The right hand, while just accompanying, must b...

What's the secret behind the magic of "Clair de Lune" by Debussy, and how can you master it? Discover the enchanting world of one of the most beloved piano compositions ever and unlock the mysteries that make it so captivating. Explore the significance of musical terms like 'con sordina' and 'tempo rubato', and how they shape the piece's sound and emotion.

00:00 Introduction
00:25 The beginning
01:11 Con Sordina
02:28 Tempo Rubato
03:16 Un Poco Mosso
04:19 En Animent
04:49 Calmato
05:14 New harmonies
06:19 Morendo
07:03 Tips for learning

'The Virtuoso Pianist' by Charles-Louis Hanon, is a staple since 1873. This video is divided into three sections, starting with preparatory exercises, moving on to scale and arpeggio work, and culminating in advanced techniques for mastering technical difficulties. It's recommended to practice these exercises slowly with a metronome, gradually increasing speed, ensuring each note is played meticulously.
Despite their popularity, Hanon's exercises have their critics, with some arguing they lack musicality and overemphasize the left hand, potentially leading to imbalance and tightness. Others question the practicality of dedicating an hour daily to these exercises over other repertoire. For beginners, it's advised to seek a teacher to ensure correct technique and to possibly start with the left hand to address its needs more thoroughly.
Hanon's exercises are celebrated for their simplicity, appeal over scales and arpeggios, and effectiveness in developing finger independence. However, alte...

In preparation for Easter, I have created this easy piano tutorial for you. Don't forget to leave a comment should you have any questions. Download the scores here: https://www.pianist.academy/jesus-is-risen-today

In the exploration of piano technique, a method once heralded by Hanon involves practicing with high lifted fingers. This technique, though popular years ago, is now often criticized for leading to tension and technical problems. However, the discussion raised a question: Is playing with high lifted fingers entirely detrimental? A closer examination reveals a nuanced view. It's essential to distinguish between fingers being 'high lifted' versus 'just lifted' before pressing a key. Beginners might not lift their fingers at all, leading to overlapping notes due to lack of control over key attacks and releases. Considering our daily routines do not replicate the movements required for piano playing, lifting fingers becomes an unfamiliar, challenging task. To acclimate to this new movement, it's suggested to lift fingers high, albeit in a slow tempo, to enhance control over pressing down and releasing the keys.

However, for fast passages, high lifted fingers are deemed unnecessary and cou...

Welcome to the first installment of a seven-part series dedicated to enhancing musicality in musicians at all levels. This episode focuses on the critical aspects of Rhythm and Inner Pulse, laying the foundation for expressing music with professionalism and heart. Contrary to the belief that musicality is an innate talent, it's argued that with dedication, anyone can develop a deeper connection to music. The ability to understand, feel, and express the character of a piece is paramount, and this series aims to equip musicians with the necessary skills.

The importance of rhythm and inner pulse as the bedrock of musical expression cannot be overstated. Playing with the correct rhythmical flow ensures that performances are not only easier to listen to but are also perceived as musically sound. The advice begins with selecting a tempo that accommodates both easy and challenging sections of a piece to prevent common performance pitfalls, using Beethoven's 'Für Elise' as a prime example of ...