Tag Archives: piano playing

The Dark Side of Piano Competitions: Do They Stifle Creativity?

Welcome to Living Pianos, I’m Robert Estrin! Today, we’re pulling back the curtain on one of the most prestigious—and controversial—piano competitions in the world: the Van Cliburn International Piano Competition. While this event has crowned some of the greatest pianists of our time, it’s also been the center of some serious controversy. Let’s dive in!

The Van Cliburn Competition has long been seen as the pinnacle of achievement for aspiring concert pianists.

Held every four years in Fort Worth, Texas, winning this competition can launch a pianist into the stratosphere of classical music. But it hasn’t been without its fair share of drama—starting with allegations of biased judging.

Did you know that during the height of the Cold War, Van Cliburn himself faced political interference?

When Cliburn competed in the first-ever Tchaikovsky Competition in Russia in 1958, Soviet Premier Nikita Khrushchev was asked whether Cliburn should win. After hearing how popular he had become with Russian audiences, Khrushchev gave the go-ahead. Despite this victory, some jurors in later Van Cliburn Competitions, such as in 1962, faced pressure and rumors of favoritism toward Soviet pianists like Lev Vlasenko, causing tensions within the judging panel.

Controversies in piano competitions go deeper than just political influences.

One of the most famous incidents happened during the 1980 Chopin International Piano Competition when Ivo Pogorelich, a pianist with a unique and avant-garde approach, was eliminated early. This prompted renowned pianist Martha Argerich, who was serving as a judge, to walk out in protest. She called Pogorelich a “genius,” but his unconventional style offended some of the more conservative jurors, highlighting how competitions often favor safer, less daring interpretations. This raises the question: Do these competitions truly reward the most creative artists, or do they push forward those who conform?

The level of pianists entering these competitions is incredibly high.

The repertoire requirements alone assure that anyone entering major piano competitions is on an incredibly high level, requiring technical mastery, artistry, and endurance. One of the judges in the Chopin International Competition was once heard saying they wouldn’t consider anyone who didn’t play note-perfect. This suggests that the expectations are so demanding that they might stifle artistic expression. Do competitions really do justice to the artform of piano playing, or are they prioritizing technical perfection over unique interpretation?

Many insiders believe that political alliances and favoritism have influenced which pianists rise to the top.

It’s no secret that jurors often come from similar circles—a ‘closed club’ of piano teachers who wield enormous power over the careers of young artists. This has led to widespread debates over the fairness and transparency of the judging process.

Winning international piano competitions today doesn’t always guarantee a sustainable career.

With so many new winners emerging, it becomes challenging for one pianist to stay at the top. While competition winners often spend their time traveling and performing, they have less opportunity to practice and refine their art, making it difficult to stay competitive as younger musicians—who have more time to practice—rise through the ranks. Even prestigious titles may not hold the weight they once did in establishing long-term careers.

What does this mean for the integrity of piano competitions?

Should we reconsider how jurors are selected? And how much of a pianist’s success is really determined by talent versus connections or politics? The Van Cliburn competition is a legendary stage for pianists, but the controversies raise important questions. Is it time to rethink how we judge the future of classical music? Let me know your thoughts in the comments below. And as always, subscribe to Living Pianos, your online piano store, for more deep dives into the world of music. I’m Robert Estrin. I’ll see you next time!

For premium videos and exclusive content, you can join my Living Pianos Patreon channel! www.Patreon.com/RobertEstrin
Contact me if you are interested in private lessons. I have many resources for you! Robert@LivingPianos.com

7 Piano Techniques Every Pianist Should Know: Russian, German, French & More!

Welcome to LivingPianos.com, I’m Robert Estrin. Today, we’re diving into the intriguing world of piano techniques. Over time, various philosophies and methods have emerged, each highlighting unique aspects of piano playing. Let’s explore some of the most renowned schools of piano technique and their distinctive characteristics.

The Russian School

The Russian school of piano technique is renowned for its emphasis on weight transfer, relaxed arm movements, and natural hand positions. This approach encourages pianists to utilize their entire arm, resulting in a rich, powerful tone. Esteemed pianists like Sergei Rachmaninoff, Vladimir Horowitz, and Sviatoslav Richter exemplify the strength and expressiveness that this technique can achieve. My own background is influenced by this tradition, as my father, Morton Estrin, studied with Madame Vera Press, a student of Russian technique. This foundation has greatly shaped my teaching approach.

Rachmaninoff – Prelude in C Sharp Minor: Op. 3: No. 2

The German School

Known for its precision, clarity, and finger independence, the German school of piano technique focuses on firm finger action rather than arm weight. This technique is exemplified by the works of Carl Czerny, Ludwig van Beethoven, Clara Schumann, and more contemporary pianists like Wilhelm Kempff. The German approach is particularly effective for mastering intricate finger work and clear articulation, making it ideal for the contrapuntal works of Bach.

Beethoven’s Tempest Sonata mvt. 3 — Wilhelm Kempff

The French School

The French school is celebrated for its emphasis on lightness, clarity, and finger dexterity. Pianists trained in this tradition often produce a refined, delicate touch, as seen in the ethereal tones of Claude Debussy’s music. Key figures such as Alfred Cortot and Walter Gieseking have demonstrated the shimmering, impressionistic sound characteristic of French pianism. This technique is especially suited for impressionist compositions.

Maurice Ravel Gaspard de la Nuit – Walter Gieseking

The Italian School

Distinct from other schools, the Italian school emphasizes lyricism, expressive phrasing, and a beautiful, singing tone on the piano. This technique, inspired by the operatic tradition, aims to achieve a cantabile style. Notable proponents include Arturo Benedetti Michelangeli and his student, Ivan Moravec. Their performances are known for their highly expressive and vocal-quality.

Chopin, Ballade in G minor, Op. 23 – Arturo Benedetti Michelangeli

The English School

Similar to the French school, the English school often highlights a more rounded, legato style. It focuses on clarity of tone, rhythmic precision, and expressive phrasing. Pianists like Myra Hess and Clifford Curzon have incorporated these elements into their performances, resulting in music that is both fluid and lyrical.

Myra Hess plays Jesu, Joy of Man’s Desiring

The American School

The American school represents a blend of various European traditions, including Russian, German, and French techniques. This approach creates a versatile and individualized style, allowing for a broad range of interpretive choices. Prominent pianists such as Van Cliburn and Murray Perahia embody this eclectic approach, which reflects a synthesis of different techniques.

Van Cliburn – Liszt: Un sospiro

The Taubman Approach

Although not a traditional school, the Taubman Approach, developed by Dorothy Taubman, focuses on ergonomic, injury-preventive piano playing. This method promotes natural, coordinated movements, aiming to make piano playing easier and free from tension. It’s particularly beneficial for pianists seeking to minimize physical strain and improve overall comfort.

Dorothy Taubman – The Taubman Approach

Conclusion

In summary, there are seven notable schools and approaches to piano technique, each with its own philosophy. Many modern pianists draw from multiple techniques, blending elements to develop a style that suits their individual preferences and repertoire. Which technique resonates most with you? Do you favor a particular school, or do you incorporate elements from various traditions? Share your thoughts in the comments here at LivingPianos.com and on YouTube! I’m Robert Estrin here at LivingPianos.com, Your Online Piano Store. Thanks for joining me!

For premium videos and exclusive content, you can join my Living Pianos Patreon channel! www.Patreon.com/RobertEstrin

Contact me if you are interested in private lessons. I have many resources for you! Robert@LivingPianos.com

Bad Piano? Fix, Sell, Remove, or Discover a 4th Option!

Welcome to LivingPianos.com, I’m Robert Estrin. Today’s question is: What can you do with a bad piano? Having a piano that doesn’t meet your expectations can be frustrating, whether you want to restore it to its former glory or simply need to find a new home for it. This article explores two primary scenarios you might face with a less-than-ideal piano and provides practical advice for each.

Restoring a Piano to a Higher Quality

If you’re hoping to transform your current piano into a better instrument, there are a few steps you can take. First, consider consulting a piano technician. An experienced technician can assess whether your piano, which might have been a high-quality instrument in its prime, can be restored to a better state with some servicing.

However, if your piano is significantly deteriorated and requires major repairs, be prepared for potential challenges. Restoration can be costly and may not always yield predictable results. The end product might feel and sound quite different from your original piano, and the costs involved could exceed the value of the instrument.

An alternative approach is to sell or trade in your piano. Many piano dealers, such as Living Pianos, accept trades and can help you find a replacement that better suits your needs. This option allows you to know exactly what you’re getting with your new piano.

Dealing with an Unwanted Piano

If you have a piano that you no longer wish to keep, perhaps because it’s been neglected or simply takes up space, there are several options to consider:

1. Selling the Piano: The possibility of selling the piano depends largely on its condition. If it doesn’t look or sound good, finding a buyer might be difficult unless it’s a high-end brand like Steinway or another premium brand with restoration potential. For a lower-end piano, platforms like Facebook Marketplace, Craigslist, and eBay are good starting points.

2. Listing for Free: If selling the piano seems unfeasible, consider giving it away. Websites like PianoAdoption.com can connect you with individuals who might be interested in taking the piano off your hands.

3. Professional Disposal: As a last resort, you might need to arrange for the piano to be professionally disposed of. Unfortunately, many pianos end up in landfills each year, which is a disappointing end for instruments with potential.

Additional Considerations

If the piano you’re dealing with is from a lesser-known brand or one that’s no longer manufactured, you might face additional hurdles in finding someone willing to restore it. Some companies specialize in high-quality American pianos, but many may not undertake restoration for brands that are not widely recognized.

If restoration or selling doesn’t seem viable, consider creative repurposing. Some people transform old grand pianos into unique furniture pieces, such as using the case as a bookshelf or installing a digital piano inside the original frame for a blend of traditional and modern aesthetics.

PIANO REPURPOSED

Whether you’re looking to restore a piano to its former glory or need to find a new home for it, understanding your options can help you make the best decision. From professional assessments and repairs to selling, giving away, or repurposing, there are several ways to handle a less-than-ideal piano. If you have any other ideas about what to do with an unwanted piano, leave them in the comments here at LivingPianos.com and on YouTube! I’m Robert Estrin here at LivingPianos.com, Your Online Piano Store. Thanks for joining me!

For premium videos and exclusive content, you can join my Living Pianos Patreon channel! www.Patreon.com/RobertEstrin

Contact me if you are interested in private lessons. I have many resources for you! Robert@LivingPianos.com

“Steinway vs Baldwin: Which Concert Grand Sounds Best?”

Welcome to LivingPianos.com, I’m Robert Estrin. Today we’re diving into an exciting comparison of two renowned 9-foot concert grand pianos: the Steinway and the Baldwin. We have some exceptional instruments here for you to explore, and I’m eager to hear your thoughts in the comments section! If you want to hear a comparison between vintage and modern Steinway concert grands, click here!

Steinway Model D: A Timeless Classic

Let’s begin with a stunning 1916 Steinway Model D. This piano has been masterfully restored to concert condition and is a beautiful example of Steinway’s legendary craftsmanship. To give you a sense of its rich, resonant sound, I’ll play an excerpt from Chopin’s Ballade in G minor. Watch the video to hear the performances!

Baldwin SD-10: Modern Elegance

Next, we’ll move to the back showroom where we have two remarkable Baldwin concert grands. First, let’s hear the 1996 Baldwin SD-10, which is all original and has been barely played. We’ve prepared this piano thoroughly to showcase its distinctive sound. Listen to the same Chopin excerpt on this instrument to appreciate its unique tonal qualities.

Baldwin SD-6: A Vintage Gem

For our final comparison, we have a 1941 Baldwin SD-6 that has also been expertly rebuilt. This piano provides yet another fascinating sound profile. I’ll play the same musical excerpt to highlight its individual character.

Share Your Thoughts!

Each piano offers its own unique voice and tonal differences. I’m interested in hearing which one resonates with you the most. Please leave your impressions and preferences in the comments here at LivingPianos.com and on YouTube! I’m Robert Estrin here at LivingPianos.com, Your Online Piano Store. Thanks for joining me!

For premium videos and exclusive content, you can join my Living Pianos Patreon channel! www.Patreon.com/RobertEstrin

Contact me if you are interested in private lessons. I have many resources for you! Robert@LivingPianos.com

What Happens to Child Prodigies When They Grow Up?

Welcome to LivingPianos.com, I’m Robert Estrin. Today I’m going to address an important and thought-provoking viewer question regarding young musical prodigies. This inquiry delves into the future of these exceptionally talented children and the challenges they may face as they grow older. Let’s explore this topic in depth.

The Dilemma of Child Prodigies

Recently, a viewer asked about the long-term outcomes for children who display extraordinary musical talent at a young age. Specifically, they questioned what happens to these prodigies when they do not pursue a career as professional musicians. Their concern stemmed from a personal experience where a talented young musician, once on track to join an orchestra, abandoned music entirely. This raises a poignant question: what becomes of these highly skilled children who may not continue in the field?

The Harsh Reality of a Musical Career

The music world is highly competitive. Many musicians graduate from prestigious conservatories worldwide, all aspiring to secure a spot as a professional performer. Unfortunately, the number of available positions does not match the number of qualified candidates. A study of Juilliard graduates found that 80% were not pursuing a career in music a decade after graduation. This underscores the intense challenge of sustaining a career solely as a performer. However, not all is lost.

Alternative Paths in Music

Many musicians find creative ways to incorporate their skills into alternative career paths. This might include teaching, accompanying, composing for various media, or performing in different settings. The key is adaptability and innovation. Some may even explore new forms of artistic expression, combining music with technology, multimedia, or other art forms to create unique experiences.

The Impact of Early Training

The experience of child prodigies can vary greatly. Some may thrive and continue to pursue music passionately throughout their lives, while others may struggle with the pressures and expectations placed upon them. For instance, my former teacher, Ruth Slenczynska, a renowned child prodigy, initially stepped away from music due to a challenging childhood before eventually returning to her career. This highlights how personal experiences and pressures can influence one’s relationship with music.

Embracing Individual Journeys

Ultimately, whether a child prodigy continues in music or chooses a different path is a personal decision. A nurturing environment can foster a lifelong passion for music, but even with such support, individuals must decide for themselves how they wish to incorporate their musical talent into their lives.

Feel free to share your own experiences or thoughts on this topic in the comments here at LivingPianos.com and on YouTube! It’s a fascinating subject with many layers to explore. I’m Robert Estrin here at LivingPianos.com, Your Online Piano Store. Thanks for joining me!

For premium videos and exclusive content, you can join my Living Pianos Patreon channel! www.Patreon.com/RobertEstrin

Contact me if you are interested in private lessons. I have many resources for you! Robert@LivingPianos.com

Understanding Piano Voicing: Warm vs. Bright

Welcome to LivingPianos.com, I’m Robert Estrin. The question today is: What is better, bright or warm voicing? Choosing between a warm or bright voicing for your piano can be a complex decision, but understanding what each term means can help you make the right choice for your needs.

What is Piano Voicing?

Voicing refers to the tone quality of a piano, which is influenced primarily by the hardness or softness of the hammers. Each of the 88 hammers in a piano must be individually adjusted to achieve the desired tone. This process involves not only adjusting the hardness of the hammers but also shaping them precisely and aligning them correctly. Regulation also plays a role in how the piano’s tone is perceived.

Factors Affecting Piano Voicing

Room Acoustics

The acoustics of the room where the piano is placed significantly impact its tone. In a small, acoustically bright room, a piano with a bright tone might sound harsh and overwhelming. In such cases, a warmer voicing can help mitigate this harshness. Conversely, in a larger space where the sound needs to travel farther, a brighter tone might be more suitable.

Musical Style

Your preferred musical style can also influence your choice. For example, a pianist who plays rock music might prefer a brighter tone for its cutting effect, while someone who plays new age music might lean towards a warmer, mellower sound to create soothing, sonorous qualities.

Playing Style and Power

The power and technique of the player are crucial considerations. A powerful player might prefer a piano with a broader dynamic range and warmer voicing to avoid a harsh sound, whereas a player with less strength might benefit from a brighter tone that requires less effort to produce sound.

Piano Types and Voicing

Different types of pianos naturally lend themselves to varying tonal qualities. For instance, American pianos like Steinway and Mason & Hamlin are often noted for their warmer tone compared to European pianos, which may have a brighter sound. However, every piano can be voiced to suit either preference, so the choice ultimately depends on personal taste and the specific use of the piano.

The More a Piano Is Played, the Brighter It Gets

Pianos tend to become brighter over time with regular use. The felt on the hammers compresses and hardens, leading to a brighter tone. To counteract this, it’s beneficial to start with a piano voiced on the warmer side. This allows for a more controlled and pleasant sound as the piano naturally brightens with use.

Seeking Professional Voicing

Voicing is a specialized skill. It’s essential to work with a skilled technician who can finely adjust the voicing to meet your specific needs. Look for a technician with experience in concert-level work, as they will have the expertise necessary to achieve the best results. Voicing needs to be even from key to key, which is a real challenge to achieve.

Personalized Voicing

Many pianos can be voiced with different tonal characteristics in various sections. For example, you might prefer a warmer middle register with brighter treble and bass notes. This customization can enhance the overall sound and suit your personal preferences. I have a personal story to share about my father, Morton Estrin. He was an incredibly powerful pianist, but he had remarkable control over his pianissimo playing as well. He truly loved exploring the full range of the piano. I remember visiting the Baldwin showroom in New York City with him, where, as a Baldwin artist, he would head to the back room filled with concert grands to test them for his New York recitals and recordings. He always sought out the piano with the warmest tone, knowing it would allow him to express himself fully without the risk of a harsh sound. His preference for a warmer voicing was because it enabled him to produce beautiful, delicate tones and, when played with more power, to reveal a range of rich, varied sounds. To contrast that, Vladimir Horowitz’s piano was known for its exceptional brightness. Horowitz’s control over this brightness was remarkable. His piano had a shallower key depth, allowing him to achieve a wide range of dynamics—from subtle nuances to powerful crescendos—with ease. His technical mastery and the unique characteristics of his piano created a dynamic and fiery performance.

Conclusion

The choice between a warm or bright voicing depends on numerous factors, including the acoustic environment, musical style, player strength, and personal taste. Each option has its benefits, and the ideal voicing will complement your piano’s natural characteristics and your individual needs. If you have any questions about the voicing of your piano, please feel free to share them in the comments here at LivingPianos.com and on YouTube! I’m Robert Estrin here at LivingPianos.com, Your Online Piano Store. Thanks for joining me!

For premium videos and exclusive content, you can join my Living Pianos Patreon channel! www.Patreon.com/RobertEstrin

Contact me if you are interested in private lessons. I have many resources for you! Robert@LivingPianos.com