Encouraging pianists to achieve greater musical expression
through the practical application of technique.
by Tom Gerou & Ingrid Jacobson Clarfield
The advancement of piano technique depends on physical strength and dexterity to implement musical expression. Piano Etudes for Developing Musicality, Book 1 presents a collection of piano studies (French, études) incorporating particular techniques that support a musically artistic approach to playing. These etudes encourage a direct connection between physical gesture and musical result. Etudes in Units 1–9 are chosen from the vast catalog of 19th-century piano teaching literature. Special attention has been given to the selection of pieces in regard to meter, keys, and appropriate complexity. Unit titles reflect the various techniques featured within, and pieces are organized in progressive order by difficulty. “Unit 10: Recital Etudes Combining Multiple Techniques” contains etudes specifically composed for this edition by Tom Gerou and incorporates techniques presented in Units 1–9.