Bringing Scales & Arpeggios to Life

15 May 2021 @ 14:00 BST (GMT +01:00)

Why are scales and arpeggios important and how do they help us with our piano playing? As the sole technical component in many examinations, practising scales and arpeggios is often associated with boredom and drudgery.

In this workshop, Graham Fitch explores how to bring life to scale practice while solving the technical problems they pose. The workshop will also explore how scales and arpeggios can be used as vehicles for learning other pianistic skills.

Topics covered include:

• A neat, practical tool to understand the theory of scales at the keyboard
• How to understand the fingering patterns and build these in reliably
• Solving the problem of the thumb in scales and arpeggios
• Ways to tackle the technical issues while avoiding tension
• How to gain speed while feeling in control
• How to map a scale using rotational movements of the forearm
• How to approach double note scales

How it works

The presentation will include be short breakout sessions in which you will be able to test out the ideas presented in the privacy of your own home. Graham will be on stand-by to give assistance during the breakout sessions (this is optional and you may simply turn-off your camera if you wish to remain private). The breakout sessions will be followed by an opportunity for Q&A.

The session will be recorded and all participants will receive a link to download the video and the accompanying presentation. Also included within the ticket price is access to a selection of Online Academy resources. Therefore, if you are unable to attend the session on the day, you will still be able to watch the workshop recording and access the other resources at your convenience thereafter.

Who it’s for?

This workshop is suitable for pianists of all levels and teachers. Although largely regarded as the sole technical component of many piano examinations, a thorough knowledge of scales and arpeggios is a prerequisite for serious piano study. Even if you are not preparing for an exam, this workshop will give you fun and creative ways to practise scales and arpeggios and to use them for a variety of purposes!

Subscriber discounts

Discounted tickets are available to Online Academy subscribers. Please sign-in to your account and the discount will be automatically added at the check-out. If you are not an Online Academy subscriber and would like to find out more about subscription options then please click here for further information.

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