Piano Forum

Hello everyone! This is my first time posting, so sorry if I say anything weird/stupid.

I am a sophomore in high school right now, and my piano teacher asked me to pick a piano concerto to play next year. I have a year to practice for a competition, but I have no idea which to pick. I'm currently between:
Beethoven No. 1
Beethoven No. 3
Brahms No. 2
Chopin No 1

I am open to any other suggestions as well as tips and guidance. I have a relatively busy schedule and as much as I love the piano, I cannot dedicate too much time to it (not looking to major). Which should I pick, and why?

Choosing a piano concerto to study and perform is an exciting opportunity! Each of the concertos you mentioned is a significant piece with its own unique challenges and rewards. Here are some considerations to help you make a decision:
1. Difficulty Level: Beethoven No. 1 and No. 3, Brahms No. 2, and Chopin No. 1 are all technically demanding concertos. Beethoven's concertos require stamina and precision, while Brahms and Chopin demand expressive playing and technical finesse. Consider your current skill level, technical strengths, and areas for growth to choose a concerto that provides an appropriate challenge without overwhelming you.
2. Musical Preference: Take into account your personal musical preferences. Listen to recordings or performances of each concerto and see which one resonates with you the most. Consider the musical style, emotional depth, and overall appeal of the piece.
3. Time Commitment: As you mentioned having a busy schedule, it's important to consider the time commitment required to learn and polish a concerto. Beethoven No. 1 and Chopin No. 1 are relatively shorter in duration compared to Beethoven No. 3 and Brahms No. 2. Choosing a concerto that fits well within your available practice time can ensure a more manageable learning process.
4. Technical and Musical Growth: Reflect on the technical and musical aspects you want to develop. Beethoven concertos, for example, can enhance your technical skills and interpretive abilities. Brahms and Chopin concertos offer opportunities to explore deep expressiveness and refined musicality. Consider which concerto aligns with your goals for growth and improvement.