Preparing for a Master Class
I have been invited to participate in a master class with a concert pianist who will be performing with the local symphony orchestra this fall. I've never done anything like this before -- I am a middle-aged amateur pianist with no music degree and no performing experience outside of playing for nursing homes and occasionally filling in at church. My understanding is that there a few students participating, and I will be the only adult (the other two are teenagers), though we are all at about a Level 7/8.
I don't want to make a fool of myself and was wondering if people here could give me some tips on preparing. Thanks!
Update: The piece I'll be playing is Chopin's Nocturne in F minor (Op. 55, No. 1).
45 replies
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All good advice. I would add that boning up on the composer and analytical aspects of the piece you choose is also helpful. In one Masterclass, I was asked about when the piece was written, the composer’s life and other works and a bit of context behind the piece. Enjoy! This is a great opportunity to perform and get some coaching.
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Hi Nina,
My last 2 cents: If you have a teacher already, that is great. if you are working on your own, I would consult a reputable teacher who knows the analysis such as harmony and counter points , the whole structure of the piece , because this is what you will base your natural phrasing on, or at least play to someone whose opinions you value. The more you play in front of an audience, the better to get some of the kinks out of the way. It does not have to be a block buster, every worthwhile piece can be played like a master piece! Have a great time!
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The PianoTexas masterclasses are bing streamed live this week: You can get your fill of watching teachers and amateurs struggle through masterclasses. Here is the current one:
https://www.youtube.com/live/Kbuxr8iyFWw?si=F1cZLbetwUKYeq6f
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Hello Nina,
if your score is not heavily marked, it is Okay although it is customary to have one, digital or hard copy for the coach. Henle Utext could be very expensive if the single work you are playing is not available, and you need to buy the whole volume. You can send it digitally to the coach or organizer ahead of time.
Is the piece you are proposing available on Tone Base? I have gone through many pieces of work i play which have been taught on Tone Base in great depth, that will really help!
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That is great you found some on Youtube. Also there is one analysis I found on youtube which may help.
What Gail said is correct. Any Hemle you bought, the digital download is free. There are also a lot of single sheet music on this piece you may be able to buy and text copy for the coach to write on.