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Czerny - Eight-Measure Exercises (Op. 821)

A guided tour of selected exercises

Carl Czerny’s works are often thought of as a ‘necessary evil’ that will magically further a pianist’s technique. As with all repertoire, outstanding results can only be achieved by working better, not harder. Fred Karpoff shows how Czerny’s Eight-Measure Exercises, in particular, are an excellent vehicle for quickly addressing specific... Read >>

Valerie Capers - Billie’s Song (No. 7 from Portraits in Jazz)

Valerie Capers composed Billie’s Song as a tribute to the great jazz singer, Billie Holiday. This beautiful ballad is featured in the Grade 4 list from the ABRSM 2023 & 2024 examination syllabus and can serve as a great introduction to the world of jazz. Capers uses lush, extended harmonies to accompany a lyrical melody to project, as she says, the "special warmth and intensity" of "the great lady of song." Performance Video lesson Preview (please log-in or subscribe to see full video) ... Read >>

JS Bach - Invention No. 4 in D Minor, BWV 775

One of the most beloved of Bach’s Inventions, this work is ideal for studying two-voiced counterpoint with equal challenges in each hand. In addition to melodic inversion, this lesson highlights how to apply three-dimensional solutions to scalar figures, detached arpeggios, and trills. Fred’s marked score provides detailed analysis of invertible counterpoint, harmony, sequence, and hemiola possibilities. Preview (please log-in or subscribe to see full video) Resources & links Click here to download a Fred's marked score for this work or Click here to... Read >>

Beethoven - Für Elise (Bagatelle No. 25 in A minor, WoO 59)

Performance Video lesson Preview (please log-in or subscribe to see full video) Resources & links Click here to download a Fred's marked score for this work or Click here to view open domain editions. ... Read >>

Clara Schumann - Scherzo in G, Op. 15 No. 4

Clara Schumann's short Scherzo from Op. 15 No. 4 is a delightful piece to study at the intermediate level. A jaunty 'A' section is contrasted by a sustained, melancholic trio before the playful main section returns. The work provides a wide variety of technical and musical challenges, including fast staccato passages, arpeggios, two-note slurs, and projecting cantabile over chorale texture. Fred Karpoff guides you to integrate three-dimensional technique with musical insights to play this piece with ease. Preview (please log-in or subscribe to see full video) ... Read >>

Eric Satie - Gymnopédie No. 1

Preview (please log-in or subscribe to see full video) Resources & links Click here to download a Fred's marked score for this work or Click here to view open domain editions. ... Read >>