Discovery Day: Harpsichord for Pianists
About Discovery Day: Harpsichord for Pianists
Are you a pianist who enjoys playing Baroque music? Or perhaps you've always been curious about the harpsichord and never been sure how or where to try one out? In which case, we have just the thing for you — a brand-new course led by pianist and early keyboard specialist Claire Williams.
What is the course about?
This course, taught in informal masterclass style, provides an opportunity to try some Baroque repertoire on the harpsichord, as a way of gaining more insight into historical style. We will cover topics such as touch and articulation, phrasing, rhythm, choice of tempo, appropriate ornamentation, and interpretation.
What will you learn?
By the end of the course you will:
Have a greater understanding of the pieces presented.
Be more familiar with certain key aspects of harpsichord technique.
Play Baroque repertoire with more awareness of historical style.
How will the course be taught?
Individual tuition within a group setting led by the tutor. However, participants are encouraged to contribute towards supportive feedback.
Who is the course for?
This course is designed for pianists of intermediate and advanced standard (Grade 5 and above), who would like to discover more about the harpsichord – perhaps for the first time!
Will music be provided and do you need to prepare or bring anything?
Participants are asked to bring along 1-2 solo pieces of their own choosing to work on during the day, ideally repertoire written during the period 1600-1750. Preparation at home of the chosen pieces is vital for gaining maximum benefit from the course. Benslow will provide one of their harpsichords for the course.
Photo credit: Marie Bailey
