Playing music during Covid has played a significant role in my life. Music has the power to transport you into a different world full of joy, expression, and creativity.
Nadia Boulanger, a famous French music teacher and conductor (Sept. 16, 1887-October 22, 1979), once said "Nothing is better than music. When it takes us out of time, it has done more for us than we have the right to hope for..."
Over the last six months, I have enjoyed practicing Sonatina Opus 36 No. 1 by Muzio Clementi who wrote simpler music than his contemporaries.
Clementi (January 23, 1752-March 10, 1832) was an "Italian-born English composer, virtuoso pianist, pedagogue, conductor, music publisher, editor and piano manufacturer." Outside of the piano world, he was relatively unknown. Some found his style to be too simplistic and even boring. He was criticized by Mozart who accused him of playing mechanically and without taste. Yet, he was one of the first composers to write sonatas exclusively for piano.
In the first movement of Sonatina Opus 36 No. 1, you can hear Clementi's light-hearted rhymic style and playfulness. The first movement of this piece is played "Allegro"—a lively and fast tempo.
Although I initially learned this Sonatina as a solo piece, I transitioned to playing it as a duet with my piano teacher, Mary Bates, playing accompaniment.
Duets are a great way to enhance piano playing. They push pianists to a higher level of learning and thinking. It demands greater concentration skills and an understanding of timing. It is also great fun to play with a partner or teacher creating a bond of joy.
In these uncertain and difficult times, making space for music, whether you play an instrument or not, can transport you to a place of calm, happiness, and peace. Sharing music with a partner or friend can enhance your quality of life.
Let the power of music fill you today. Blessings and peace to you, my readers.