Comments about the B section, Grade 1 2019 - 2020, ABRSM, piano examination
Brahms, Wiegenlied (no. 4 from Five Songs, Opus 49) arr. Litten
This beautiful, slightly wistful piece requires a rich cantabile melody, good tonal control, tone matching and RH balance. The piece has an interesting bass line that necessitates careful control. In the first two phrases the LH is played on the second and third beats of each bar which demands that the player listens carefully to the remaining RH sound when playing the LH. In the second two phrases the LH helps to propel the RH melody.
Oesten, The Echo (No. 14 from Mayflowers, Opus 61
Oesten has written a descriptive piece that demands flair, story-telling and good tonal contrasts. The player needs to have the courage to move confidently from one position to another, as there are many places in the piece where the hands have to move. This is an exercise in playing with accents, using contrasting dynamics and also ensuring that the triplet rhythm is maintained throughout the piece.
Swinstead, The Lonely Road (No. 6 from Work and Play)
Although this haunting piece initially appears to be uncomplicated, it demands considerable attention to detail from the player. Using the title as a starting point, the player has to ensure that the melody is always projected with a warm and rich cantabile tone. Along with good tonal control, the player has to ensure that the LH notes are held correctly, the LH lifted at the correct places and that the LH's melody is projected where necessary.
Bartok Quasi Adagio (No. 3 from For Children, Vol 1)
This plaintive, well-known piece may appear to be an 'easy' option with its repetitive patterns. However, do consider the interpretative and technical aspects of this piece for the player. The RH cantabile melody needs to sing out above the LH chord patterns, which are being played in a rich tonal area of the piano. Some players may be a little unsettled in the way the hands play quite close to each other. The player best suited to this piece would be one who could cope with the 7th chord in the LH.
Andrew Eales, Head in the Clouds
This is another plaintive and haunting piece that requires considerable tonal control and the projection of a robust LH melody. A picture or story will be necessary for the player to convey the dreamy mood and ethereal character of the piece. The composer has provided a number of excellent dynamic markings, which are extremely helpful when interpreting the piece.
Andrew Lloyd Webber Close every door (from Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat) arr, Bullard
This popular and well-known piece will appeal to many players. The beautiful cantabile melody is well supported by the LH. This piece demands a rich melody with well-considered dynamics in each phrase. A few touches of rubato will help to convey the mood of this piece.
ABRSM Grade 1 piano exam books 2019 - 2020