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Handel - Allegro in F, HWV 488
ABRSM Grade 4 - A3
This lively courante-style Allegro in F major opens with a descending scale in a rhythm that might form the basis for scale practice in other keys too. As is typical in Baroque music, the performer needs to supply their own dynamic colouring and articulation according to “good taste”. Some of the notes in the quaver patterns might be slurred (to create an accent), others played short. Crotchets may be played legato, or slightly separated. Experiment with adding a crescendo in the ascending sequence at the start of the second half and find a special colour for the arrival in the... Read >>
JS Bach - Prelude and Fugue in B-Flat Major, BWV 866
ABRSM Grade 8 - A1
This prelude and fugue from Book 1 of The Well-Tempered Clavier is one of the few entry level works from Bach’s timeless masterpiece, the lively fugue more approachable than many of the others because the notes lie relatively comfortably under the hands. In three voices, there are three motives (subject, countersubject and the motive that first appears in the soprano voice in bar 9). These themes then join together in different combinations (a compositional device known as triple counterpoint). The Prelude is in toccata style, made up of passages in broken chord figuration, solid chords, and scale-like passages. Depending on... Read >>
Pescetti - Presto (3rd mvt from Sonata No. 6 in C minor)
ABRSM Grade 4 – A1
Pescetti was an Italian composer of the Baroque era, known for his many operas and some keyboard pieces written for the harpsichord and early piano. The term “presto” tells us to play very fast; we find triplets almost throughout in the right hand that require considerable dexterity to bring off. To bring out the energy of this piece, make the suggested dynamic contrasts very clear, adding quick breathing places for punctuation. Enjoy the difference in character and resonance depending on which register of the keyboard we are playing in. Preview (please log-in... Read >>
Partita No. 6 in E minor
BWV 830
The Toccata from Bach’s Partita No. 6 in E minor, BWV 830, is a popular choice for piano diplomas. These videos (with accompanying study edition for the Fugue) will show you how to approach learning, interpreting and performing this magnificent work.... Read >>
Galuppi - Sonata No.5 in C major
Preview (please log-in or subscribe to see full video) Resources & links Click here to view open domain editions for this work. ... Read >>
Purcell - Ground in C Minor
Preview (please log-in or subscribe to see full video) Resources & links Click here to view open domain editions for this work. ... Read >>
JS Bach - Invention No. 4 in D Minor, BWV 775
One of the most beloved of Bach’s Inventions, this work is ideal for studying two-voiced counterpoint with equal challenges in each hand. In addition to melodic inversion, this lesson highlights how to apply three-dimensional solutions to scalar figures, detached arpeggios, and trills. Fred’s marked score provides detailed analysis of invertible counterpoint, harmony, sequence, and hemiola possibilities. Preview (please log-in or subscribe to see full video) Resources & links Click here to download a Fred's marked score for this work or Click here to... Read >>