A warm welcome back to all pupils who have had a nice long summer break.
This is always a pleasantly chaotic time of the year as pupils decide the direction they would like their piano journey to take. Many will start on exam courses and there are some really exciting new pieces out there.
I have looked at the Grade 7 syllabus in some detail as a couple of pupils are ready to go on this grade and there are some gorgeous and deeply challenging pieces. There is a fantastic C piece called ‘Lowside Blues’ which is full of piano fireworks including some Glissando. There is also a fair helping of delicious French Romantic music By Faure, Ravel and Grovlez.
The Grade 1 and 2 sets of pieces are also very interesting with the Associated Board throwing in more well-known pieces than ever before. These include at Grade 1 ‘Early one Morning’ and ‘Autumn’ from the Four Season and on Grade 2 ‘Wonderful Tonight’ by Eric Clapton. Some interesting developments indeed. I look forward to looking at all the other Grades.
Others of you may be interested to know that I have just ordered a copy of a collection of Abba songs arranged for Piano, which might inspire you after the wonderful success of ‘Mamma Mia’ in the cinema this Summer. There are many great arrangements of songs from musicals and films available to explore on the piano. Some of the most popular hits with pupils last year were from the ‘Sound of Music’ and ‘The Lion King’, as well as plenty of great classical pieces of course.
I will add the dates to the Main list for 2008, when I get them, for the Theory and Practical Examinations this term – and for the 4th Adults’ Evening to be held in early November.
More news to follow soon!
Piano Lessons in Birmingham 