Piano Lesson on Loud and Soft Playing: Part 1

Summary

In this lesson, Graham Fitch discusses the importance of controlling tone in both loud and soft piano playing, focusing on maintaining sound quality across dynamic extremes. He demonstrates techniques for playing fortissimo without losing tone quality, such as responding to the bottom of the key and using controlled release of effort. He also highlights common mistakes in soft playing, emphasizing the need to connect with the key bed for focus. Additionally, Fitch explores how to layer sound in loud passages and avoid a cacophonous result. The session concludes with an introduction to the pedal's role in shaping sound texture.

Takeaways

• 😀 Effective control of tone is crucial in both loud and soft piano playing, ensuring high-quality sound across dynamic ranges.
• 🎹 Fortissimo playing requires a focus on the bottom of the key to avoid harsh, cacophonous sounds and maintain sound quality.
• ⚡ In loud playing, after exerting effort, an instantaneous release is essential to prevent tension and maintain control over the sound.
• 🎶 To avoid creating unpleasant noise in loud playing, it's important to land gently on the keys and focus energy from the upper body rather than relying on a forceful touch.
• 🎼 Soft playing requires a similar focus on the key bed to ensure clarity and focus, preventing the sound from becoming hollow or unfocused.
• 🎧 Practicing soft playing with gentle, controlled contact after pressing the key helps in developing a more focused and rounded sound.
• 🌞 A technique for improving soft dynamics is to play the note with the desired volume and then gently feel for the bottom of the key to create a focused sound.
• 🎵 When playing fortissimo, not every note should be played equally loud, as that can create a chaotic sound. Instead, layers and textures should be created with varying dynamics.
• 🎤 A strong bass note can naturally create a fortissimo sound, while the melody and middle components should be balanced and voiced accordingly for a clearer, more focused performance.
• 🎹 Understanding and using the correct layering of sound is essential for creating an effective, well-controlled performance in both soft and loud passages.

Q & A

What is the primary focus of Graham Fitch's lesson in this video?

The primary focus of Graham Fitch's lesson is the control of tone in both loud (fortissimo) and soft (pianissimo) playing on the piano. He provides techniques for maintaining good sound quality across the extremes of dynamic ranges.

How does Graham Fitch suggest addressing the challenge of producing a good sound in fortissimo (loud) playing?

Graham Fitch suggests responding to the bottom of the key by sensing when the key reaches its bottom and then releasing the effort. He emphasizes that after feeling the bottom of the key, you should instantly release the pressure, allowing the sound to be produced without unnecessary tension.

What is the importance of the 'bottom of the key' in both loud and soft playing?

The bottom of the key is crucial because it helps pianists to maintain control over their playing. In loud playing, responding to the bottom of the key prevents unnecessary tension, while in soft playing, connecting with the key bed ensures a focused, controlled sound.

Why does Graham Fitch advise against landing on the keys from a height during loud playing?

Landing on the keys from a height can produce unwanted percussion sounds and disrupt the control of the tone. It creates additional noise that the pianist cannot control, leading to poor sound quality.

What does Graham Fitch mean by 'releasing effort' in loud playing?

Releasing effort refers to letting go of unnecessary tension after sensing the bottom of the key. Once the pianist feels that the key has reached its limit, the effort should be immediately released, allowing for a more relaxed and controlled sound.

What common mistake do pianists make when playing softly (pianissimo)?

A common mistake in soft playing is not reaching the bottom of the key, which leads to a hollow or weak sound. This results in a lack of focus and clarity in the notes, as the pianist fails to connect properly with the key bed.

How can pianists improve their soft playing technique, according to Graham Fitch?

Pianists can improve their soft playing by practicing to connect with the key bed after playing the note. A light contact with the key bed after the note is played helps to focus the sound, much like focusing light with a magnifying glass.

What is the problem with playing every note equally loud in fortissimo?

Playing every note equally loud in fortissimo leads to a cacophonous, uncontrolled sound. Instead, pianists should layer their sound, making sure the bass is strong and focused while adjusting the volume of the middle and top notes for a more balanced and musical result.

How does Graham Fitch approach the concept of layering sound in loud playing?

Graham Fitch layers sound by varying the volume of different parts of the music. For instance, the bass notes should be played powerfully, while the middle and top notes should be adjusted to create a clear, structured sound, instead of playing everything at the same volume.

What role does the pedal play in loud and soft piano playing, according to Graham Fitch?

The pedal is essential for shaping the piano's texture, especially in loud and soft playing. It helps blend sounds and sustain notes, but it needs to be used thoughtfully. In loud playing, the pedal can be used to sustain the bass while allowing the top notes to emerge clearly, and in soft playing, it helps to create a smooth, connected sound.