Divisive as ever, the inclusion of two pieces by Ludovico Einaudi in the ABRSM’s 2021-22 piano syllabus has generated some heated discussion around the pedagogic merits of his work. Teachers who enjoy his music are happy to see him included. Others do not like his work but are pleased on behalf of their students. The rest are dismayed, seeing it as representative of a dumbing down of standards.
Tag: piano music
Journeys piano album by William Minter
'Journeys' is a six-volume collection of 97 piano pieces, composed and arranged by William Minter, originally from the UK and now resident in Connecticut. Rather in the manner of Bartok's Mikrokosmos, the pieces are arranged in order of difficulty, from the first volume of simple but characterful pieces for students of around Grade 1 ability… Continue reading Journeys piano album by William Minter
Beautiful music in motivating pieces
Why I love playing and teaching Ludovico Einaudi's piano music - guest post by Maria Busqué Ludovico Einaudi's piano music is a delight to play. That aside, there are many advantages to teaching it. I'm still grateful to the person who first introduced me to his pieces. Einaudi's music is beautiful and unpretentious. It's sincere, simple, and allows… Continue reading Beautiful music in motivating pieces
Guest post: Discovering New Repertoire
As a piano teacher based in Lichfield, one of the first things I ask a pupil when they start lessons is what would they like to play. Most look slightly embarrassed and the horribly predictable 'Moonlight Sonata', 'Für Elise' and 'The Entertainer' are volunteered as possible ideas. For most people learning an instrument, I reckon… Continue reading Guest post: Discovering New Repertoire
A Piano Teacher Writes... 