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The art
of piano playing when considered from an
educational standpoint can readily be divided into
three quite distinct channels, the mechanical, the
mental and the emotional. In order to afford
a well rounded and symmetrical musicianship, these
must all be cultivated to their greatest
capacities.
The course in technic
does not conform to any one prescribed method, but
the work is presented largely from an anatomical
viewpoint according to the student's physical
peculiarities.
The mental development of
piano playing is cultivated in all of its forms --
the pupil being trained to think
accurately and quickly, and to develop his
powers of concentration.
The emotional or
interpretive phase of piano playing is cultivated
by a careful study of the standard works of
classic, romantic and modern composers. In
this study of repertoire, every effort is made to
foster and elevate the student's taste and
appreciation, as well as to cultivate his insight
into the artistic intentions of the composer.
Diplomas and teachers'
certificates are granted to the candidate at the
completion of all the requirements of the
course. The time required for the same
regularly demands several years of study, this
depending, however, on the student's diligence,
natural abilities, character and amount of
previous training. It is impossible to
outline a definite course of study which would
meet all of the requirements for graduation, the
entire course of technical and musical study being
left to the teacher's discretion.
The following
requirements must be met, however, by all
candidates for diplomas:
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1. |
Thorough understanding of
works by the leading classic, romantic and
modern composers, and their distinctive
modes of expression. |
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2. |
Mastery of the principles of
scientific memorizing. |
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3. |
Mastery of all scales and
arpeggios in the various accents, degrees of
velocity and dynamics. |
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4. |
Mastery of the basic
principles of tone production. |
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5. |
Mastery of the principles
involved in the playing of staccato and
legato, phrasing, accent, dynamics, agogics,
etc. |
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6. |
Mastery of artistic
pedaling. |
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