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Alexander Scriabin (1872-1915) was a symbolist Russian composer of the turn of the 20th century. He underwent a steep stylistic progression from his early Chopinesque works to his futuristic compositions of 1910s. Piano was Scriabin’s main medium. It was on this instrument where he made significant musical discoveries, experimenting with harmonies and special sound effects and creating inimitable sonorities, impressions and characters. The etude was one of Scriabin’s essential compositional genres. From his earliest Op. 2 No. 1 in C-Sharp Minor (1887) to the final three, Op. 65 (1911-12) which bordered on atonality, Scriabin penned 26 etudes, each of which presents innovative pianistic ideas. Dr. Rachmanov will follow the development of Scriabin’s etudes, giving an overview and highlighting a few with an in-depth look into their structure and character.

Alexander Scriabin Etudes

Dmitry Rachmanov

Technique should always serve a musical end. But how do we build a good technique? Jonathan Bass will share ideas and approaches from his own technical and musical journey, which he always highlights when teaching his own students. Jonathan will start with some basic exercises and principles, then move onto scales of different sorts before discussing two Chopin Etudes in detail, Op. 25 No. 2 in F minor and Op. 25 No. 11, 'Winter Wind'.

Means To A Musical End

Jonathan Bass

What is virtuoso playing? To answer this question, Roberto will discuss the challenges and goals of playing Paganini’s 6 Etudes. He will focus on achieving musical purpose by stressing the importance of a variety of colors, voicings, and freedom. This course will also include advice on practice techniques, and how to overcome certain technical issues

Paganini of the Piano

Roberto Poli

Join us to celebrate the piano étude and the composers behind the music. You’ll learn more about your favorite études and discover some unfamiliar works that you will love. Scott will present pieces at every teaching level along with practice devices that make learning easy.

The Étude Returns

Scott McBride Smith

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