Amateur pianist and competition planner, Sally Olson, lives in Chicago (US) and is on the committee of the Chicago Amateur Piano Competition 2016. This competition, which began in 2010, is steadily growing in popularity with entrants hailing from many countries. Few realise the tremendous amount of planning, fund-raising and marketing behind such an enterprise. Last…
Tag: Amateur pianists
Piano Showcase presented by Pianist Magazine and Schott Music
I’ve written on many occasions about the positive practical and psychological benefits from regular performance practice. Nothing can prepare a pianist for the feeling of stepping out in public. A pianist must think under pressure and play a piece from beginning to end. It should be performed with few errors, stumbles, or hesitations. Feeling terrified is normal. However,…
Variations for Judith: Contemporary Piano Music
This set of Contemporary pieces was a fascinating recent discovery. Entitled Variations for Judith for Piano, 11 short reflections on “Bist du bei mir” by G H Stölzel arranged by J S Bach. The collection was the brainchild of British composer Diana Burrell. She wanted to present a very special leaving gift to Judith Serota….
A professional approach to performing
This week I’ve been staying in Edinburgh with a friend who is an excellent amateur pianist. She has attended many piano courses and masterclasses, both as a participant and observer. This led to some interesting discussions and observations about the differences between students and professional players. How can students learn to be more professional in…