Ravel - Sonatine, ii. Mouvement de Menuet
Full-Length Tutorial
This 53-minute video lesson explores an in-depth look at the second movement, (marked Mouvement de Menuet) of Sonatine by Maurice Ravel. Composed between 1903-1905 (published in 1905, with the world premiere in 1906), Sonatine initially received lukewarm reception from several music critics, but went on to become one of Ravel’s most beloved works. This piece is more accessible and can be approached by early-mid advanced level pianists, unlike many other more difficult compositions Ravel wrote, such as Gaspard de la nuit, Miroirs, and others, making it a favorite among Ravel’s compositional output. Whether this piece is at the top of one’s technical ability, or is a technical relief from Ravel’s more difficult works for more advanced pianists, this piece presents the performer with many challenges and requires thoughtful craftsmanship throughout, in order to create a convincing and moving performance. Areas of focus in this second movement tutorial include developing a softer and more consistent touch and tone at the piano, how to develop greater ability with voicing, a discussion about tempo (and the marked tempo variations we see throughout the movement), pedaling suggestions including a discussion about the una corda pedal, ideas for more convincing dynamic contrast, how to vary the expression on repeated material, tips for effective fingering, how to create long, singing lines and breathing at the end of phrases, how to develop a better sense of rubato, and many other strategies and tips to help you become as efficient as possible in your practice sessions. At the end of the video Josh shares two full play-throughs of the piece.
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Your Instructor
Billboard #1 artist Dr. Josh Wright has delighted audiences across the United States and in Europe. The Washington Post described him as a pianist possessing “rarer gifts – touch, intelligence and the ability to surprise.” He performed his debut recitals at Carnegie Hall and the Kennedy Center in 2014. His self-titled album “Josh Wright” topped the Billboard Classical Traditional chart just three weeks after its release in April 2011. He also performed at Dolby Theater in Los Angeles as part of America's Got Talent Season 9. He currently serves on the piano faculty at the University of Utah. He has performed with numerous symphony orchestras, been a prize winner in international competitions, and studied with some of the world's greatest piano teachers. He looks forward to being your personal mentor in each of his course offerings.
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