Piano Pedagogy Playlist

Ep. 44 – Ordinary Things Lead To Extraordinary Playing

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Gentle Breezes (from Especially in Romantic Style, book 1)
Dennis Alexander Early Intermediate
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Sweet Jasmine (from Especially in Romantic Style, book 1)
Dennis Alexander Late Elementary
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Getting something right once is not the same thing as making it a habit. In this episode, I explore how fundamental skills become musical reflexes through two pieces by Dennis Alexander: Gentle Breezes and Sweet Jasmine.

First, getting students to listen for the balance between a singing left-hand melody and understated right-hand chords in Gentle Breezes (early intermediate). Then, in the simpler Sweet Jasmine (Late Elementary), hear how subtle phrasing gives even elementary music direction and meaning. Along the way, I reflect on the struggle of remaining patient while holding firm to musical expectations and how the simplest, ordinary habits lead to extraordinary playing.