Taught by renowned pianist
Marc-André Hamelin
Rediscover your technique with the help of one of the greatest living pianists, Marc-André Hamelin. In this mini-course, Hamelin shares special exercises that helped him develop one of the most formidable techniques in history. But “technique” is much more than mechanics. As the great Italian pianist and composer Ferruccio Busoni once wrote, “technique in its truer sense has its seat in the brain. It is composed of geometry—an estimation of distance—and wise co-ordination.” It is in this spirit that Hamelin demonstrates special warm-up patterns and practice devices he has adapted and developed from lesser-known piano manuals written by great pianists and composers of the past. Suitable for pianists across ability levels, these exercises are sure to stimulate your mind as well your fingers, and elevate your technique to new heights.
What is Technique?
The word “technique” as musicians often use it “is a misnomer,” according to Marc-André Hamelin. In this short interview scene with Ben Laude, Hamelin explains how technique is a much deeper concept than mere mechanics.
Symmetrical Inversion
In this lesson, Marc-André Hamelin breaks down the technique of “symmetrical inversion” at the keyboard. Developed by Swiss pianist-educator Rudolph Ganz, this tool is meant to develop ambidexterity by mirroring right-hand passagework in the left-hand.
4-Note Permutations
In this lesson, Marc-Andre Hamelin shares with you an exercise he still uses to this day to warm-up his mind. Hamelin demonstrates Alfred Cortot’s technique of playing permutations of 4-note patterns while a fifth note is held, and shares his variation on the exercise inspired by Russian pianist Vasily Safonov.
One-Handed Polyphony
In this lesson, Marc-André Hamelin demonstrates special polyphonic exercises for the left hand alone, written by Swiss pianist and composer Émile-Robert Blanchet. Playing two contradictory lines in the same hand is as much a mental and aural challenge as it is physical one. Intended to develop finger independence in the left hand, Hamelin demonstrates how you can apply symmetrical inversion to exercise the right hand as well.
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Unlock Course →Pianist Marc-André Hamelin is known worldwide for his unrivaled blend of consummate musicianship and brilliant technique.
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