Practising scales and passagework using different rhythms and accents can help you to play faster and more accurately. However, the efficacy of these practice methods depends on how they are used. In this online workshop, Graham Fitch explores the historical use of rhythms and accents for practice, demonstrating how to (and how not to!) use them for the best results.
Workshop content & topics
The workshop will cover the following topics:
Getting the benefits while avoiding tension
Rhythms in divisions of 2’s and 3’s
Syncopated rhythms
How to add shifting accents to your practice
When to avoid this type of practice
…and a proven method of mixing up slow and fast practice that keeps us fully focussed!
How it works
The workshop will be divided up into a set of topics with an introductory presentation for each followed by a short “breakout” session in which you will be able to test out the concepts presented and associated exercises in the privacy of your own home. Graham will be on stand-by to give assistance during the breakout sessions which will then be followed by a group discussion and Q&A.
The session will be recorded and all participants will receive a link to download the video, worksheets and the accompanying presentation. Therefore, if you are unable to attend the session on the day, you will still be able to watch the video at your convenience and work through the exercises and examples.
Who it's for
This workshop is suitable for pianists of all levels and will be of special interest to piano teachers. Many players and teachers will have heard of rhythm and accent practice, but may not be using it for the right reasons, or may not be using this type of practice for maximum effect. If there is mis-alignment of the arm to the playing finger, rhythm practice can actually make things worse by building in tension, which is why it has to be done correctly. This workshop will give you lots of information and interesting new ways of applying rhythm and accent practice to your daily routine.