This class will explore composers of piano music, discussing main style traits, influences, performance practices, and repertoire. Participants will receive sheet music of excerpts for the composer(s) as well as some recommended listening. Participants will have the opportunity to play (on electronic keyboards) these excerpts in class as part of exploring the performance practices and possibilities associated with the composer. In previous years, this class explored Frederic Chopin (2025), W.A. Mozart (2024), Stephen Chatman (2023), and did a survey of composers through the ages in 2022.

In 2026, we will explore the piano music of J.S. Bach with a focus on Baroque performance practices with regards to contrapuntal textures, preludes and fugues, dance suites, phrasing, character and affect, rhythmic assimilation, ornamentation and articulation. As well as solo repertoire excerpts, the class will work on one or more pieces as a group with the goal of performing as a monster piano ensemble. Participants are welcome to bring works by J.S. Bach at their respective level to develop during the week.

Is this class for you?

For intermediate to advanced piano/keyboard players with sight-reading ability.
This class will perform at the end of the week.
This class has limited enrolment.

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