Piano: repertoire workshop

What is the course about?

Acquire a deeper understanding of the stylistic interpretation and performance of a wide range of piano repertoire. Emphasis will be placed on improving technique through postural awareness in addition to specific pianistic studies, tone production, pedalling technique and rhythm/pulse co-ordination. A regular practice routine is essential for progress at this level.

If you are unsure which course is best for you, please contact the music department where our teachers will help you select a class at the right level.

What will we cover?

• knowledge and awareness of repertoire including styles from baroque to contemporary
• further understanding of musical forms and structures
• advanced technical skills
• interpretive skills
• memorisation techniques
• preparing for informal concerts

Repertoire themes are tutor-led, from which students can select their pieces.

What will I achieve?
By the end of this course you should be able to...

• Show improved stylistic awareness
• Demonstrate developed fluency of rhythm and pulse co-ordination
• Demonstrate your technique to cope with more advanced repertoire
• Demonstrate an improved tone quality
• Display a subtle pedalling technique
• Make independent decisions in regard to pedalling, ornaments and articulation
• Produce layered textures in contrapuntal music

What level is the course and do I need any particular skills?

You will have a playing standard of minimum grade 8. You need to be able to follow written and verbal instructions in English and engage in class discussions.

How will I be taught, and will there be any work outside the class?

• All courses use Google Classroom to share materials and messages, including any homework tasks.
• Each class member will be individually coached in masterclass format.
• Class members are invited to participate in performances through attentive listening, practical illustration and peer feedback

Are there any other costs? Is there anything I need to bring?

Students should have access to a piano (acoustic or digital) for practice between classes and budget approximately £15 per term for scores. Music may be purchased new or second-hand. Many suitable scores may also be available from IMSLP.

To see the repertoire and any required music books you will need to bring to this course please refer to our list as follows: City lit piano repertoire books.

When I've finished, what course can I do next?

You may repeat Piano: repertoire workshop classes for as long as you wish or when you are ready, progress to Piano: advanced workshop. Your tutor and the Head of Piano will advise you.

City Lit offers a wide range of piano classes from beginner to advanced levels. If you are new to City Lit piano classes, please take a moment to read our Piano Department page, which lists our full sequence of piano classes.