How To Teach Grieg Notturno Op.54, No.4
Today we're talking about the very beautiful Notturno Op.54, No.4 from Edvard Grieg's Lyric Pieces. Not only is this piece worthy of study in its own right, it also provides fabulous preparation for students who want to play Clair de lune by Claude Debussy. For that reason, it’s included in my newest resource, Not Ready Yet.
Syllabus listings for difficulty level:
RCM 9
Illinois AIM Level 10
Jane Magrath Level 8
Related videos:
Leopold Mozart Minuet in F Major
Johann Burgmüller Arabesque Op.100, No.2
Grieg Little Troll (Puck) Op.71, No.3
Grieg Watchman’s Song Op.12, No.3
The main topic highlighted in Part 1 was rhythmic components:
9/8 time signature,
duples versus triples,
ties, and
polyrhythms
Suggested Practice Process:
Practice LH alone WITHOUT ties, then polyrhythm WITHOUT ties
Practice the accompanimental RH part with LH
Put everything together
Balance the melody over the accompaniment
In Part 2, I talked about everything else!
Rolled chord at the end
Chromatic content m.51-54
Piu mosso section suggestions
“Nightingale” trills
My newest resource - NOT READY YET
Not Ready Yet - suggestions, complete with direct links to quality editions, for alternative and preparatory repertoire appropriate for TEN of the most-asked-for pieces. The next time a beginner or intermediate student asks you to play Clair de lune, the Pathetique, or Maple Leaf Rag, be prepared and have options at your fingertips! Check it out here.
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