A must repertoire for every pianist.

[expressman70]

Hello all,

I am wondering if you think that there are specific pieces that ALL pianists should practice in course of their studies for development and for other reasons. If you feel like there are, just post them, and you can also give arguments as to why or why not such repertoire really is a must.

Thank you

[preludetr]

I wouldn't say there are any specific pieces, but I think many advanced pianists would agree that it's essential to play some of the Beethoven sonatas, Bach preludes and fugues, and Chopin etudes.

[ahinton]

I would agree on Bach WTC and Chopin Études Opp. 10 & 25, as well as Liszt's Sonata and Années de pèlerinage and at least some of the Études of Alkan and Godowsky. A pianist capable of exceptionally fine performances of all of these is capable of taking on just about every challenge that might be thrown at him/her.

Best,

Alistair

[expressman70]

Very interesting point that you made, sir. I tend to agree with everything above said.

[chopinlover01]

Bach WTC, Beethoven sonatas, and Chopin mazurkas.
*record scratch*
Why Chopin mazurkas, you say?
Because it allows you to focus purely on musicality; this, of course, is the ideal case in any piece we play; that we are skillful enough to be able to play it however we please despite the technical difficulties.
Rarely is this the case, I find; on the contrary, we often hear all too many performances of Chopin Nocturnes and Ballades where the pianist is struggling. The mazurkas, however, allow for a low technical requirement with some truly wonderful music waiting. A true testimony to Chopin's mastery of small forms (though that doesn't take away from his larger compositions like the Ballades), and his melodic brilliance.

[jimroof]

I would suggest the following:

At least one early Beethoven Sonata, one from his middle period and, if you are up to it, a later Sonata as well.

I agree with the WTC suggestion.

Chopin Etudes, but first get a handle on a Scherzo or a Ballade (4 is a beast, 1 is tough, 2 and 3 are easier but still full of good music).  A handful of Nocturnes too.

MOZART!  You have to learn at least 2-3 Sonatas.

Debussy Preludes will help round out a pianist too. 

And, come to think of it, pick up a Brahms Rhapsody (Bm is good - not that difficult but a good introduction to Brahms.

[expressman70]

I would suggest the following:

At least one early Beethoven Sonata, one from his middle period and, if you are up to it, a later Sonata as well.

I agree with the WTC suggestion.

Chopin Etudes, but first get a handle on a Scherzo or a Ballade (4 is a beast, 1 is tough, 2 and 3 are easier but still full of good music).  A handful of Nocturnes too.

MOZART!  You have to learn at least 2-3 Sonatas.

Debussy Preludes will help round out a pianist too. 

And, come to think of it, pick up a Brahms Rhapsody (Bm is good - not that difficult but a good introduction to Brahms.

Awesome recommendations. Would Moonlight sonata be in middle? Thank you anyways.

[expressman70]

Bach WTC, Beethoven sonatas, and Chopin mazurkas.
*record scratch*
Why Chopin mazurkas, you say?
Because it allows you to focus purely on musicality; this, of course, is the ideal case in any piece we play; that we are skillful enough to be able to play it however we please despite the technical difficulties.
Rarely is this the case, I find; on the contrary, we often hear all too many performances of Chopin Nocturnes and Ballades where the pianist is struggling. The mazurkas, however, allow for a low technical requirement with some truly wonderful music waiting. A true testimony to Chopin's mastery of small forms (though that doesn't take away from his larger compositions like the Ballades), and his melodic brilliance.

Now this what you just said here, I never heard or thought about, a very interesting statemend indeed about Mazurkas. Thank you