The Russian School Of Piano Playing Book 1 Part 2 Pdf ((top)) Online

The Russian School of Piano Playing (Book 1, Part 2) is the second half of Alexander Nikolaev's highly systematic method book, typically used for students in their second year of study. While "Part 1" focuses on elementary basics like reading and picking out melodies,

Step 1: Do Not Skip the “Preparatory Exercises”

Week 1 — Foundations

  1. Finger Independence and Strength: A range of exercises designed to improve finger dexterity, strength, and coordination.
  2. Scales and Arpeggios: A thorough presentation of major and minor scales, as well as broken chords (arpeggios), in various keys and rhythmic patterns.
  3. Chord Progressions and Harmonies: An introduction to basic chord progressions, enabling students to develop a deeper understanding of harmony and accompaniment techniques.
  4. Musical Pieces and Etudes: A selection of short pieces and etudes, showcasing various styles and periods, to cultivate musicality and expression.

I zoom in on a specific exercise—perhaps it is a study by Leshchorn. The score is crowded with fingering numbers. In American method books, fingering is often a suggestion; in the Russian School, printed in this PDF, fingering is law. The numbers hover over the notes like strict conductors. 1, 2, 3, pass. The text doesn't just ask you to play the note; it demands you know exactly how the finger must strike to produce the specific quality of sound required. It is not enough to hit the key; one must sink into it. the russian school of piano playing book 1 part 2 pdf

  • Transposition: A critical feature of this book. Students are not allowed to stay in C Major. Exercises are immediately transposed to G, D, F, etc. This builds a tactile understanding of keyboard geography and tonalities.
  • Fingering: The book emphasizes "correct" standard fingering (the "school" fingering) to ensure fluidity. It discourages "convenient" fingering in favor of "structural" fingering that works in faster tempi later.

Goal

Review: The Russian School of Piano Playing, Book 1, Part 2 (PDF)

  • The Russian School of Piano Playing: Book 1, Part 2 PDF: This PDF provides a digital version of the book, allowing students and teachers to access the exercises, musical pieces, and pedagogical guidelines.
  • Supplementary materials: Many online resources offer supplementary materials, such as video tutorials, audio recordings, and practice guides, to support students and teachers using the Russian School of Piano Playing.