Phew. The local music festival is over and I am a little tired! Everyone did really well; all of my students had great performances, got great marks, and hopefully had great experiences. We ended the week on a high note with Teagan and Ella's duet Oh Brother! by Canadian composer Karen Rowell. Well done girls!
What's happening in the studio? I have another project underway, which is to memorize my Rachmaninoff prelude before the end of the month. The prelude I am playing is Op. 23 No. 5 in G minor and was written in 1901. This piece features a very famous march theme contrasted by a lyrical middle section and, despite taking only four minutes to perform, is very intense.
I have included a recording of Sergei Rachmaninoff himself playing this piece (which I find so fascinating!). I have made it through all of the march-like sections which leaves me two pages of the lyrical section left to memorize. My arms are wearing a bit thin but I think I can do it...wish me luck!
In other news I have posted another playlist which features selections from one of CNCM's latest editions, Northern Lights- Level 8B. I only managed to record six pieces, but hopefully it's helpful for people wanting a taste of this great book or who are looking for new Canadian pieces at a grade 8 level. Click on the link to hear the playlist: Northern Lights, Selections from Level 8B.
Happy Easter everyone!
~ Jennifer
Love the Rach! Look forward to hearing it live.
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