Chopin…It’s On!
The dulcet melody of etudes from Chopin Op. 10 enthralled my ears when I was sitting in the audience at a professional pianist competition in the recital halls at NYU. I was infatuated by the mostly twenty-minute-long pieces each pianist performed in front of a panel of judges. My piano teacher had invited me to come see her participate at an annual competition held right near Washington Square. I was in awe when I saw her and the other competitors run their fingers so vigorously yet beautifully over the clavier. To me, it is absolutely captivating to see someone lay their hands on the keys and give meaning and emotions to simple black dots on fine-lined sheets of paper. This infatuation has been my motivation in continuing to play for almost eleven years. Sitting in the audience witnessing these heart-felt deliveries of such comprehensive pieces, I thought to myself that these pianists shouldn’t be perceived as “competitors” for they can merely compete in terms of technique. Instead, they should each be applauded as artists who are able to play marvelous music in their own, individual interpretation. In the end, a twenty-two-year-old pianist won whose excellent technique was undeniable. To me, he stood out among the others because of the refined tone he produced and his sensational delivery. I was truly inspired by these pianists; it provided reassurance once again that I want to always hone the skill of playing the piano.
December 14th, 2007 at 3:35 am
I think that in music there will always be competition and deservingly so. Competition leads to innovation. Before, a sixteenth note use to be the fastest a person could play, but now people play in 64th notes and so on. Also, I think that musicians are automatically considered artists, even though most artists are playing stuff thats already been written.However, even if two people are playing the same piece, itll never sound alike and thats y i think all musicians are artists. But you are never too old to learn a new instrument, so you should def take lessons if you get a chance
December 14th, 2007 at 7:38 pm
I always sort of regret never pursuing the Piano past first grade and Yankee Doodle. I have one in my house because my sister used to play, and still does on occasion. However, whenever I get the chance I like to fool around and try some playing songs by sound or just making something up. I think that no matter the skill level, one can find comfort in playing a piano.
December 15th, 2007 at 1:38 am
oh man, I only wish I were there. I think the difference between a pianist and a piano leaner is the ability to interpret a piece of notes in one’s own way. Playing out the note is nothing, but when one puts his/her thoughts in the notes and acts them out is really something. It all makes it different.
December 20th, 2007 at 2:35 am
i have been to one of these piano recitals, though it wasnt a competition. my cousin was one of the acts so i went to go cheer for him. but i agree anna, they should be applauded as artists who are able to play marvelous music in their own, individual interpretation. that night all the kids played complex pieces ranging from beethoven to chopin, but my cousin ended up playing After the Goldrush by Neil Young. Obviously that rock song does not even pale in comparison to the others, but what made it special was that it was his interpretation.