this week's lesson notes

Played Mendelssohn's Spinning Song for Dr. N. Tempo was a bit slower than what's indicated, but that's ok because I started learning this piece last week. Dr. N advised to keep my hands lower to the keyboard to prevent finger tapping sounds. Played the piece through without any pedal. Dr. N suggested places where I could use some pedaling and pointed out areas that really need to be played with legato.

She reminded me to practice slow, medium, and fast.

Afterwards, I played for her Mendelssohn's Songs without Words No. 2 (Regret). Afterwards, she remarked that it was lacking some tonal continuity and that the phrasing could be improved. She recommended places where crescendos and diminuendos should occur. But she stressed the idea of 'putting words in the melody': "I'm going to Publix to buy a tangerine." (from Rebecca Penneys at her Masterclass) into a melodic phrase. But every word is important or else it will lose its meaning.

Then played the Beethoven Piano Concerto No. 3 First movement-starting from the Development section until right before the cadenza. Watch your 2's against 3's as it sounds 'fudged'.

Also, start thinking about summer plans. Dr. N recommended some 20th century pieces to go along with some earlier works. Bring books.

Oh yeah, next week's lesson will be extended (be there at 3:30p).