Listening to classical piano music

The goal is to be able to hear in your music all the elements of a good performance.

1. Tempo
2. Dynamics
3. Articulations
4. Balance
5. Phrasing and cadences

Materials needed: Professional recording, a score, a pencil, good speakers or earbuds​​.
The trick is to pay attention to one element at a time.
 

1. On the first play, tap along with the beat and see if the tempo fluctuates. On the second play, mark in the score: Accel., Rit,. A tempo.
2. Second play, pay attention to dynamics. Does the performer follow the dynamic markings found in your score? Did they vary the dynamics within a marked section? Say p, or piano, but you hear fluctuations between pp and mp or wider? How did they interpret the accents?
3. Third play, articulations. How did they play the staccato, tenuto, legato markings? Did they match your score?
4. Fourth play, balance, that is the relative loudness between the melody, accompaniment, and bass.
5. Fifth play, phrasing and cadences. How did the performer play the first and last notes under a slur? For more advanced students, mark in and label the cadences. How were they interpreted?

​Daniel Barenboim has some important thoughts on deep listening. Enjoy.
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Cheers,

​David Story

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