Schubert

Schubert - Impromptu in E-Flat Major D899 (Op. 90, No. 2)

This section contains walk-throughs and lessons on Schubert’s Impromptus Op 90, starting with No. 2 in E-Flat Major.... Read >>

Schubert - Impromptu in G-Flat Major (Op. 90 No. 3)

Schubert’s Impromptu in G-flat major is part of the first set of impromptus composed shortly before his death in 1828. The piece showcases Schubert's mastery of maintaining a single texture throughout, with a lyrical melody in the upper voice, rippling triplet figures in the middle and a supportive bassline. In... Read >>

Schubert - Impromptu in A-Flat (No. 2 from Four Impromptus, Op. 142 D. 935)

ABRSM Grade 8 - B9

The A-flat Impromptu, written the year before Schubert’s death, contrasts outer sections where we find a simple chordal texture and a gentle melody on the top with a central trio of flowing arpeggiated triplets over a rocking bass. The music explores the colour possibilities of the different registers of the piano, the stately mood of the A section leading to an impassioned climax in the trio. Chord balance and voicing, as well as control of the pedal, are necessary ingredients of a beautiful performance. ... Read >>

Schubert - Impromptu in A-Flat Major (No. 2 from Four Impromptus, Op. 142, D. 935)

ABRSM Grade 8 - B9

Schubert wrote two sets of Impromptus, each comprising four pieces. The term “impromptu” conveys a sense of improvisation or spontaneity, yet the formal structure (ABA) is very clear here. The A-flat Impromptu is based on a very simple, pure melody that reminds us of a gentle dance (a minuet, or maybe even a sarabande). Control of texture is all-important here; voice the right hand chords to the top, making sure to support the sound from the cello (low left hand notes) and respond to the changes in register. The middle section (trio) is more active rhythmically, with a constant triplet... Read >>

Schubert - Valse sentimentale, Op. 50 No. 13

This beautiful waltz by Schubert features a cross rhythm between the hands. Don’t miss this feature! The player will need to consider carefully how to use the pedal here - sometimes more, sometimes less. Resources & links Click here to purchase sheet music form the Trinity College online store (external link). Click here to view open domain editions for these works (external link, see page 7). Click here to view the index for our Guide to... Read >>

Schubert - Minuet and Trio (D. 41 No. 21)

ABRSM Grade 4 – A3

An elegant minuet and trio with some pleasing chromatic touches, this pair of dances is full of interest as well as challenges in touch and articulation. Resources & links Piano Exam Pieces 2021 & 2021, Grade 4 is available from the ABRSM online shop here. The syllabus upon which these Practising the Piano Online Academy materials are based is © by The Associated Board of the Royal Schools of Music and is reproduced by permission of the copyright owner. The Practising the Piano Online Academy... Read >>