The Evolution of Piano Technique: Romanticism vs. Minimalism

Transcription

1 The Evolution of Piano Technique: Romanticism vs. Minimalism Melissa Johnson University of Mary Washington Department of Music Dr. Mark Snyder and Andrew Kraus Spring 2017

2 Abstract: In this lecture recital, the differences in piano technique over three centuries will be evaluated in relation to the changes in societies attitude toward how music should be presented. In addition to the discussion of the evolution of technique, I will perform three examples: one Romantic piece, Frederic Chopin s Berceuse; and the Minimalist pieces, Ludovico Einaudi s Andare and Fabrizio Paterlini s My Piano, the Clouds. 1

3 Table of Contents: Abstract... p. 1 Introduction p. 3 Thesis... p. 3 Approach and Methods... p. 4 Implications of Research... p. 4 Work Plan/Time Table p. 5 References p. 6 2

4 Introduction: Romanticism was dominated by themes of unrequited love which resulted in musical techniques such as frequent use of harmony and counterpoint. Harmony, as well as use of secondary dominant chords, created an overall musical atmosphere of peace and satisfaction. In addition to the unrestrained emotional expression often employed throughout this period, variances in dynamics and tempo became more common. These changes brought about due to Romanticism also became the gateway to the unique sound of Minimalism. Due to Romantic composers experimentation with abrupt changes in chord progressions and melodies, twentieth-century composers were able to build upon their ideas and create unique sounds that were not previously replicated. Thesis: With an analysis of the piano technique of Franz Liszt and Frederic Chopin, an understanding of Minimalism will be obtained through an observation of the similarities and differences of the Romantic composers, as well as the twentieth-century composers Ludovico Einaudi and Fabrizio Paterlini. 3

5 Approach and Methods: I will research the development of the Romantic period by focusing on the works of Frederic Chopin and Franz Liszt, and how these composers left an impact on music over time due to their piano technique. In addition, I will study technique of Ludovico Einaudi and Fabrizio Paterlini, and compare the techniques found in the Romantic period with the techniques employed by these twentieth-century Minimalist composers. With the knowledge obtained, I will draw conclusions on the relationship between the two periods and focus on the distinct similarities and differences. Implications of Research: With this research on the evolution of two specific time periods, the process is to get one to ponder how two completely different and unique periods can still be united. The focus on the three chosen pieces of music will strengthen the argument that the similarities are enough to be substantial due to the explanation of the specific techniques employed. 4

6 Work Plan/Time Table: Projected Date Actual Date Complete Abstract and Proposal January 24 January 27 Abstract and Proposal February 7 February 23 Presentation Begin Research on Chopin and February 13 February 25 Liszt Complete Biographies and CV February 16 February 20 Begin Practice on Andare February 24 February 24 Begin Research on Einaudi and February 27 Paterlini Begin Practice on My Piano, the March 6 Clouds Extensive Practice on March 6-10 Berceuse/Final Touches Compile All Research into a March 13 Coherent Presentation Perfect Andare and My Piano, March 23 the Clouds Perfect Presentation March 31 Presentation and Performance April 15 Portfolio Presentation April 20 5

7 References: Romantic Music. Essential Humanities. Accessed January 27, Rush, Toby W. "Romantic Era Techinques." Toby Rush. Accessed January 27,