Ravel Piano Concerto
Here is a link to one of the most unique pianists playing one of the most beautiful pieces ever. The pianist was also a grand prix driver, fighter pilot, and prison escapee:
Enrico Caruso
If you have never heard Caruso sing, you should. If you have, you won’t mind hearing it again. Why am I putting him up on my piano website? Because you need to hear opera if you are going to play the piano. Click on the picture to hear it done like it can never be done again.
Here are all the Major and Minor scales, with fingerings
Click here to download a .zip file containing .pdfs of all the Major and Minor scales, with fingerings.
Rockin’ harpsichord performance
Check out this performance by Elaine Comparone on a harpsichord. It is too much for her to just sit down, I guess:
My Favorite Music Theory Method Books
Most people groan at the idea of music theory—it is just like more math homework! But, the music students I have had who spend regular time learning about theory always excel over those who just want to play. A little work a day, like aerobics or biking, or learning a language, can keep you in shape and ahead of the game; and you will know more about what you are doing, which always helps.
The theory method that I like the best is called Basics of Keyboard Theory, by Julie McIntosh Johnson. I like it because my students like it—I have had the best response from students of diverse ages, who don’t mind (some of them even like it). Here is the link to her site: http://www.bktmusic.com/
PLUS you can download computer activities, at least when the site is working. Maybe it will be up again soon.
Elliot Eisner’s “Why the Arts Are Important To Learning”
Why The Arts Are Important.
Here is an interesting article on why arts are important to one’s education.
Vladimir Horowitz, pianist
Watch Video: Horowitz plays Liszt Consolation No. 3
Vladimir Horowitz is my favorite piano artist—this clip is one of my favorite piano clips ever. Horowitz was incredibly famous and successful, and led a most interesting life. He received a lot of criticism for his business practices, and his showmanship, and was thought by many to be a shallow, self-centered pianist. I say, watch this whole video and look on the expression on his face at the very, very end of it; that tells quite a different story than the one of a spoiled brat.
Welcome!
Greetings, music friends, and welcome to my new website. I plan to post things up here all the time: articles, websites, and maybe even some help for your practicing and music knowledge. Come back from time to time and maybe we can even have discussions, questions answered, etc.