The Cyclical Form of Standard Repertoire

Greetings once again! In preparation for my upcoming exam, I have created a symbolic representation of my teaching strategy with regard to the element of "Standard Repertoire" pieces of piano study.

Phew! That was a mouthful .... what I mean is ... there is a system of pieces that teachers (myself, included) are able to choose from - most often, we find these pieces in the selected graded repertoire in exam books for each grade (like the London College of Music books, Royal Conservatory books or Conservatory Canada books ... we can even find these important musical elements in a variety of forms in the Faber and Faber materials). Those Music Boards will make their choices based on the many collections and contributions of master composers, pianists, arrangements and technical offerings compiled over many years in the evolution of the piano, the performer and music itself.

But the question remains, why use a list of Standard Repertoire at all? What is it all about and is it effective in developing the skills of a successful pianist while nurturing a love for all things musical?

Many of my students will be surprised and perhaps even shocked to learn that I adhere to any form of "standard" anything ... my teaching style has always been, and will remain, focused on the learning styles and musical strengths of my individual students. However, I am a firm believer that from the enormously vast opportunities provided in Standard Piano Repertoire, a true pianist can be born. Not to mention, the ever-increasing availability of modern composers! (Christopher Norton is an inspirational composer of our day! His collection of "COUNTRY PRELUDES" is one of my favourites). Check out his website and learn about this brilliant composer ...

http://www.christophernorton.com/

So ... my questions to you - my students ...

1. How many pieces can you list from each era and for each completed grade (you may include the current 2006/2007 calendar), THAT YOU PERSONALLY HAVE LEARNED (or a style of piece for each era) ??? I bet you will be pleasantly surprised by the length of your repertoire and variety of pieces you have accomplished over the year(s).

Another question is,

2. Can you think of titles for each of the eras that might explain their musical styles other than what has been given above?

3. Can you name the specific musical styles for each piece on your list? (For example: and easy one might be "Minuet" by J.S. Bach in Grade 3 - well, the era is simple; it's the Baroque era and it's a MINUET (dance) ... what about LINUS AND LUCY from the Charlie Brown theme? :0)

Bring your lists to lessons and we'll review them together!

ENJOY YOUR TASK!