Member-only story

Late Elementary to Early Intermediate: A Comprehensive Guide for Piano Students

Emmett Mitchell

·10.5k Followers· Follow

Published in Introducing Etudes For Building Piano Technique 1: Late Elementary To Early Intermediate

4 min read · 2 weeks before

997 View Claps

87 Respond

Save

Listen

The transition from late elementary to early intermediate piano playing can be a challenging but rewarding one. This comprehensive guide will help you navigate this transition smoothly and successfully.

Introducing Etudes for Building Piano Technique 1: Late Elementary to Early Intermediate

Introducing Etudes for Building Piano Technique, Book 1: Late Elementary to Early Intermediate

by Isabel Otero Bowen

4.9 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	7780 KB
Print length	:	33 pages
Lending	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported

Technique

As you progress from late elementary to early intermediate, your technique will need to become more refined and precise. This means paying close attention to your finger placement, hand position, and overall posture. You will also need to develop a strong foundation in scales, arpeggios, and other technical exercises.

Here are some specific technical tips to focus on:

Keep your fingers close to the keys and your wrists relaxed.
Use a smooth, even touch when playing.
Develop a strong sense of rhythm and timing.
Practice scales and arpeggios regularly to improve your finger dexterity and coordination.

Repertoire

The repertoire you choose to play at this level should be challenging but achievable. It should help you to develop your technical skills as well as your musical artistry.

Here are some recommended pieces for late elementary to early intermediate piano students:

Bach, Invention No. 1 in C Major
Beethoven, Sonatina in C Major, Op. 49, No. 2
Chopin, Nocturne in E-flat Major, Op. 9, No. 2
Debussy, "Clair de Lune" from Suite bergamasque
Mozart, Sonata in C Major, K. 545

Musicianship

Musicianship is an essential part of becoming a well-rounded pianist. This includes developing your ability to read music, understand musical notation, and interpret the composer's intent.

Here are some ways to improve your musicianship:

Read music regularly and try to understand the structure and form of the pieces you are playing.
Listen to recordings of great pianists and pay attention to their interpretation of the music.
Attend concerts and recitals to experience live music and learn from other musicians.

Practice Strategies

The way you practice is just as important as the amount of time you practice. Here are some effective practice strategies:

Set realistic goals for each practice session.
Break down difficult pieces into smaller sections and practice them separately.
Use a metronome to help you develop a strong sense of rhythm and timing.
Record yourself playing and listen back to identify areas that need improvement.
Take breaks when you need them and don't over-practice.

The transition from late elementary to early intermediate piano playing can be a challenging but rewarding one. By following the tips in this guide, you can develop the technical skills, musical artistry, and practice strategies you need to succeed at this level.

With hard work and dedication, you can reach your full potential as a pianist.

Introducing Etudes for Building Piano Technique, Book 1: Late Elementary to Early Intermediate

by Isabel Otero Bowen

4.9 out of 5