Are you tired of the same old Bach pieces? Discover 5 Hidden Gems of Baroque Music Beyond Bach!

Ever felt like you've heard all there is to hear from Johann Sebastian Bach? Think again! Dive into the depths of Baroque music with us as we explore five incredible compositions from the era that aren't by Bach but are just as mesmerizing. From the dance music of Jean-Baptiste Lully for Louis XIV to the captivating 'Le coucou' by Louis-Claude Daquin, prepare to be amazed by the diversity and richness of Baroque music. Whether you're a seasoned classical music enthusiast or new to the genre, these pieces will add something special to your playlist.

In this video:
- Discover Jean-Baptiste Lully's 'Gavotte', a piece that made Louis XIV dance.
- Experience the emotional depth of Johann Pachelbel's Chaconne in F minor.
- Be moved by Handel's 'Passacaglia' from his 'Suite No. 7'.
- Explore one of Domenico Scarlatti's 555 piano sonatas.
- Listen to the playful 'Le coucou' by Louis-Claude Daquin and...

'The Virtuoso Pianist' by Charles-Louis Hanon, is a staple since 1873. This video is divided into three sections, starting with preparatory exercises, moving on to scale and arpeggio work, and culminating in advanced techniques for mastering technical difficulties. It's recommended to practice these exercises slowly with a metronome, gradually increasing speed, ensuring each note is played meticulously.
Despite their popularity, Hanon's exercises have their critics, with some arguing they lack musicality and overemphasize the left hand, potentially leading to imbalance and tightness. Others question the practicality of dedicating an hour daily to these exercises over other repertoire. For beginners, it's advised to seek a teacher to ensure correct technique and to possibly start with the left hand to address its needs more thoroughly.
Hanon's exercises are celebrated for their simplicity, appeal over scales and arpeggios, and effectiveness in developing finger independence....

In the exploration of piano technique, a method once heralded by Hanon involves practicing with high lifted fingers. This technique, though popular years ago, is now often criticized for leading to tension and technical problems. However, the discussion raised a question: Is playing with high lifted fingers entirely detrimental? A closer examination reveals a nuanced view. It's essential to distinguish between fingers being 'high lifted' versus 'just lifted' before pressing a key. Beginners might not lift their fingers at all, leading to overlapping notes due to lack of control over key attacks and releases. Considering our daily routines do not replicate the movements required for piano playing, lifting fingers becomes an unfamiliar, challenging task. To acclimate to this new movement, it's suggested to lift fingers high, albeit in a slow tempo, to enhance control over pressing down and releasing the keys.

However, for fast passages, high lifted fingers are deemed unnecessary and...

Welcome to the first installment of a seven-part series dedicated to enhancing musicality in musicians at all levels. This episode focuses on the critical aspects of Rhythm and Inner Pulse, laying the foundation for expressing music with professionalism and heart. Contrary to the belief that musicality is an innate talent, it's argued that with dedication, anyone can develop a deeper connection to music. The ability to understand, feel, and express the character of a piece is paramount, and this series aims to equip musicians with the necessary skills.

The importance of rhythm and inner pulse as the bedrock of musical expression cannot be overstated. Playing with the correct rhythmical flow ensures that performances are not only easier to listen to but are also perceived as musically sound. The advice begins with selecting a tempo that accommodates both easy and challenging sections of a piece to prevent common performance pitfalls, using Beethoven's 'Für Elise' as a prime...

In this educational exploration, we delve into the intriguing world of the Mannheim rocket, a captivating musical technique that has left a significant mark on classical music. This technique, characterized by its fast ascending arpeggio that launches with the force of a rocket, serves as a testament to the innovative spirit of the Mannheim school, a group of 18th-century composers based in the city of Mannheim, Germany. Their experimental approach to music composition laid the groundwork for many of the classical era's greatest achievements.

The Mannheim school is celebrated for its groundbreaking contributions to music, including the development of a new Sonata form and the standardization of the four-part symphony. Among their inventive 'Mannheim tricks,' the Mannheim rocket stands out for its dramatic and energetic ascent in melody, capturing the imagination of both composers and listeners alike. Other notable techniques include the Mannheim birds, with their chirping effect...

In this video I am breaking down the pattern visually for you.

It helps you to recognize the Alberti Bass, teaches you how to use this pattern in your improvisation and gives you some technical tipps (better sound!)

Beethoven moved up to 70 times which may shed some light on his popularity as a neighbor. Because writing all his friends all his new addresses had become a chore he told them to "just write - Beethoven, Vienna!" 

Beethoven was not the most handsome neighbor you could think of. In this three-part series we will discover some of his wildest habits that have had neighbors go mad. 

According to a few accounts Beethoven must have lived in quite a mess - listen to these quotes.

Beethoven's 6th Symphony

A breakthrough in programmatic music and a demonstration of Beethoven's love for nature.