Author: Andrew Clarke

Geidō

“Geidō” (芸道) is a Japanese term referring to a traditional Japanese art or way, emphasizing a disciplined and lifelong pursuit of mastery. It’s not a specific, codified method solely for piano. However, we can apply the principles of Geidō to the study of the piano, creating a framework for dedicated and meaningful practice.

Here’s a breakdown of how the Geidō philosophy can inform piano mastery:

Core Principles of Geidō Applied to Piano:

* Shu-Ha-Ri (守破離):
* This is a fundamental concept in Geidō, describing the stages of learning.
* Shu (守 – Observe/Protect):
* This stage involves strictly adhering to the fundamentals, following the teacher’s instructions precisely. In piano, this means mastering basic techniques, scales, arpeggios, and musical theory.
* Emphasis is placed on correct posture, finger placement, and understanding musical notation.
* Ha (破 – Break/Digress):
* Once the fundamentals are solid, the student begins to explore and experiment, incorporating their own interpretations and variations.
* In piano, this might involve exploring different musical styles, improvising, and developing personal phrasing.
* Ri (離 – Separate/Transcend):
* In the final stage, the student transcends the established forms, achieving a unique and personal mastery.
* In piano, this represents a deep understanding of music, allowing for effortless expression and original interpretations.

* Shin-Gi-Tai (心技体):
* This principle emphasizes the importance of mental, technical, and physical development.
* Shin (心 – Mind):
* Cultivating a focused and disciplined mind is essential. This involves developing concentration, patience, and a deep appreciation for music.
* Mental practice, visualization, and mindful listening are crucial.
* Gi (技 – Technique):
* Mastering technical skills is paramount. This requires consistent and diligent practice, focusing on precision, control, and efficiency.
* Regular exercises, etudes, and challenging pieces are necessary.
* Tai (体 – Body):
* Maintaining physical health and well-being is vital for optimal performance. This includes proper posture, relaxation, and avoiding physical strain.
* Ergonomic practice habits and physical conditioning are important.

* Continuous Refinement:
* Geidō is a lifelong pursuit, emphasizing continuous improvement and self-reflection.
* In piano, this means never ceasing to learn, explore, and refine one’s skills.

Practical Applications for Piano Practice:
* Establish a Disciplined Practice Routine:
* Consistency is key. Dedicate specific time each day to practice, focusing on quality over quantity.
* Focus on Fundamentals:
* Master scales, arpeggios, and basic techniques before moving on to more complex pieces.
* Cultivate Mindfulness:
* Pay close attention to every aspect of your playing, from finger placement to musical expression.
* Seek Guidance from a Master:
* A qualified teacher can provide valuable feedback and guidance.

* Embrace the Journey:
* Focus on the process of learning and improvement, rather than solely on the end result.

* Deep Listening:
* Listening to many different styles of music, and many different pianists, so that you can broaden your musical understanding.

By incorporating these principles, you can embark on a journey of profound musical growth and mastery.

Piano practice, learning a craft…

Out of curiosity I asked an AI program to answer the question “Piano Practicing as a Craft?” It’s such a detailed and accurate description that is difficult to improve, so here it is in its entirety:

Piano practicing as a craft involves the careful, intentional cultivation of skills and expression through discipline, attention to detail, and a deep engagement with the instrument. Like any craft, it is both structured and creative, combining technical precision with artistry.

A pianist works like a craftsman, breaking down pieces into manageable sections, dissecting each phrase, and focusing on details such as dynamics, articulation, and timing. This involves an iterative process, where phrases are played and replayed until the physical and mental understanding of the piece aligns. Muscle memory is built gradually and refined continuously.

Practicing piano also includes working on technique—scales, arpeggios, and exercises that, though repetitive, strengthen the hands, improve coordination, and enhance finger independence. Just as a woodworker sharpens their tools, a pianist hones these skills to execute pieces with clarity and ease.

Beyond the technical aspect, crafting music on the piano requires developing a sense of interpretation and emotional understanding. Pianists learn to listen deeply to their own playing, adjusting tone, balance, and expressiveness. Each note, like a brushstroke on canvas, contributes to the larger emotional arc of the piece.

A craftsman of piano practice understands that progress is gradual and patience is essential. They approach each practice session with curiosity and respect for the process, knowing that mastery emerges from sustained, focused effort over time.

Tips for Playing the Piano with Feeling

As a piano student, you’ve probably heard your teacher talk about playing with feeling and expression. But what does that actually mean, and how can you learn to do it? Here are some tips to help you tap into your emotions and play piano with feeling.

1. Connect with the music: Try to understand the emotions that the composer was trying to express in the piece you’re playing. Is it joyful, melancholy, energetic, or something else entirely? Let those emotions guide your playing.

2. Listen to recordings: Listen to recordings of professional pianists playing the piece you’re learning. Pay attention to how they use dynamics, phrasing, and tempo to create emotion and expression.

3. Use your imagination: Imagine a story or scene that the music might be expressing. Let that story inform your playing, and try to convey it to your audience.

4. Experiment with dynamics: Don’t be afraid to play with volume and intensity. Use crescendos and diminuendos to create contrast and drama.

5. Shape the phrases: Think about how the melody rises and falls, and try to create a sense of direction and purpose in your playing.

6. Use rubato: Don’t be afraid to play with tempo, speeding up and slowing down slightly to create expressiveness.

7. Trust your instincts: Don’t be too caught up in the technical aspects of playing. Trust your instincts and let your emotions guide your playing.

Remember, playing with feeling takes time and practice, but the more you work on it, the more expressive and emotional your playing will become. So don’t be afraid to experiment and have fun with it!

Have Fun with Exercises!

Welcome to another exciting post where we dive deep into the art of making piano practice not just productive but also incredibly fun! Today, we’re drawing inspiration from a fantastic approach that emphasizes creativity and enjoyment in musical education.

Introduction: Why Fun Matters in Practice Learning the piano requires dedication and countless hours of practice, but who says it can’t be fun? Incorporating enjoyable elements into your practice sessions can boost motivation and make the learning process something to look forward to each day.

Creative Exercises to Transform Your Practice

  1. Mixing Rhythms: One of the most effective ways to spice up your piano practice is by playing with different rhythms. Whether you’re practicing scales, arpeggios, or pieces, try integrating varied rhythmic patterns. For instance, switch between triplets, sixteenth notes, and syncopated rhythms to challenge your timing and dexterity.
  2. Play with Dynamics: Dynamics aren’t just for expression; they can be a tool for fun, too! Practice your scales or your favorite pieces by dramatically changing the dynamics. Start pianissimo (very soft), crescendo to fortissimo (very loud), and then diminuendo back to soft. This not only helps with your expressive skills but keeps the practice engaging.
  3. Incorporate Technology: Use apps and online tools that gamify learning. For example, rhythm trainers or digital platforms that provide real-time feedback can make your practice sessions feel like playing a video game.
  4. Musical Storytelling: Turn a piece of music into a story, where each section represents a different character or scene. This approach helps you to think creatively about the music and find new ways to express yourself through your playing.

Conclusion: Keep the Fun Alive Remember, the goal of integrating fun into your practice sessions is to make the learning process enjoyable and sustainable. By varying your routine and challenging yourself with new, playful exercises, you’ll not only become a better pianist but also look forward to each practice session with eager anticipation.

Call to Action Try out these fun exercises in your next practice session and see how they transform your approach to the piano. Happy practicing!

Tips to help bring out the best tone when playing the piano

There is a pianist from the past, Artur Rubenstein. His playing was characterised by the most beautiful tone. Rubenstein gave every note importance and make melodies truly sing. The result, as you can hear below, was truly exceptional.

Chopin Nocturne Op. 9, No. 1 in B flat

Here are some tips to achieve a beautiful rounded tone:

    Relax, check your posture.

    Play with the pads of the fingers rather than the tips. Aim for a warm ‘buttery’ tone effect when doing this.

    Listen carefully. Listen attentively to the sound you are producing and adjust your touch accordingly.

    Play with a variety of touch. Experiment with different levels of pressure to bring out the full range of the piano’s sound.

Rubenstein was ‘honest’ when he played. He searched for the composer’s meaning, and endeavoured to produce what the composer meant us to hear. He didn’t ‘throw away’ notes and gave them all full value. Can you practice to achieve this?

2023 Adults Social Concert

Thanks to Nick, Abi, Leanne, Trevor, Flora, Matt and Rachel for taking part in this year’s Christmas social music evening. Not to forget Sue who helped with the teas and coffees!

The evening was an opportunity to play pieces in front of other students and to make new friends. It’s always daunting to play in front of an audience, particularly other piano players, but everyone played beautifully and confidently.

Thanks to all, it was great fun!

Please observe the speed limit

Remember, when you practise it has to be SLOW. You cannot practise impatiently. Putting in the ‘time’ of practising is not enough. I would rather 30 minutes of slow practising and listening to 2 hours of just playing.

Practise slowly. Listen to what you are playing, pay attention. This helps you eliminate mistakes and bad habits.

1. Practise slowly
2. Have a plan, know what you want to achieve.
3. Do it in small sections.
4. Have patience.
5. Listen. Don’t just ‘hear’ what you are playing.