Northwest Pianos, My recital clips

Here is a "reader's digest" version of my recital on 9-12-09. The recital was a part of the Northwest Pianos Sauter Concert Series.

Bach on a Clavichord

Here is the Toccata from Bach's 6th Partita in e minor played on a clavichord. The clavichord was a common instrument found in many homes from the 16th century to the 18th century in Germany. We often hear Bach's music played on a harpsichord, since much of his music was written for the instrument. However, hearing his music played on a clavichord is more rare. In contrast with the harpsichord, the player can control dynamics and even a type of vibrato making it capable of playing a more cantabile melody. This would probably lead one to wonder why the clavichord was used less as a performance instrument then and is used much less now. Its small size and soft volume made it a convenient home tool for composition and thus made it impractical for public performance. Above is a picture of a clavichord from Bach's birthplace home in Eisenach.

Chopin Etude Op. 10 No. 2

I really enjoyed this clip of the second etude. Being one of the most challenging of the 24 Etudes (I think I've said that before about other etudes as they are all quite demanding), this focusses on the 3rd, 4th, and 5th fingers of the right hand. The pianist is required to play the chromatic writing with these fingers due to the thumb and forefinger executing the accompanimental writing. This particular pianist demonstrates remarkable precision and flexibility. This is a fine example of the technique needed for this work.