Pre-Conference Feature Presentation: "A Conversation with Jane Magrath: An Insider View to Piano Literature for Teaching and Performance (2021)"

In this session, Dr. Magrath will provide insights on ways piano teachers can use this book to discern what is possible for students at various stages of their musical growth. Additional ways to use this volume will include suggestions to expedite independent teacher self-study and ways to use it with a teacher study group or for a college/university course. Solutions for some teaching situations will also be offered.

“First Steps in Classical Literature: Mid-Elementary Levels”

In this session we’ll embark on the process of transitioning students from a method book to the classical repertoire. We’ll discuss the appropriate time to introduce the easiest-level classics and the musical and technical underpinnings necessary for a secure start. Elizabeth will give an overview of the most sensible classics with which to begin along with performance demonstrations and discussion on key teaching points. The handouts will guide you in your selection of pieces for each era, Baroque, Classical, Romantic, and Modern.

“First Steps in Classical Literature: Late Elementary Level”

To wrap us this day we’ll tour late elementary classical solos for each era, Baroque, Classical, Romantic, and Modern, with an overview of common teaching pieces found in most collections and a few lesser-known options teachers should know about. At this level the interplay between the hands increases, paving the way for more complex homophonic and polyphonic textures to come. Elizabeth will guide you through some essential choices while offering some important teaching advice and demonstration.

Each webinar session will offer a thematic index for all presentation pieces, a handout for note-taking, plus plenty of time for Q and A at the end.

“Classical Foundation at the Early Intermediate Level”

The early-intermediate level is where most teachers usually begin teaching classical literature. The selections available here are vast and wide and when planned carefully, students can gain some solid foundation for all classical repertoire to come. What should you choose, and in what order? How much should be covered before a student is ready for intermediate level? These questions and more will be answered along with demonstration and discussion of essential pieces from each era and those featured in most published collections.

“The Black Hole: Intermediate Classical Repertoire”

It’s easy to breeze by the intermediate level much too quickly in favor of learning favorite masterworks at the higher levels. We’ll explore multiple styles and forms from all eras that assist students in harnessing a strong interpretive ability, more imaginative musical thinking, and technical prowess. Core foundational pieces will be highlighted and discussed along with other lesser-known student favorites to add to your arsenal.

Each webinar session will offer a thematic index for all presentation pieces, a handout for note-taking, plus plenty of time for Q and A at the end.

“Core Repertoire at the Late Intermediate to Early Advanced Levels”

This repertoire is the gateway to a multitude of styles, keyboard textures, forms, and fun! You’ll learn of the works that serve as requisite “springboards” toward the bigger Beethoven sonatas, larger romantic masterworks, and highly rhythmic modern works.

GUEST PRESENTERS

1:00PM Central

"Demystifying Baroque and Classical Ornamentation”

Join us for a lively discussion of Baroque and Classical era ornamentation. George Litterst will be joined by German pianist and early music scholar, Ratko Delorko. Maestro Delorko performs on period and modern instruments and is known to many teachers as a popular presenter at national and international conferences. Together they will discuss practical ways to approach ornamentation with musical freedom and authenticity.