Course Contents
Two-to-one Course
1. This course consists of six tutorials of two hours each, convened once a week over a two-month course duration. The tutorials are offered in either English or Mandarin depending on the students’ preference.
2. To ensure a smooth learning experience, the student needs the following equipment:
- a visual display (i.e., a computer, laptop, tablet, or smartphone) with a microphone for clear communication,
- a metronome, and
- a stable internet connection.
3. Each student is paired with another of similar level and the same language preference for the course duration. Should a student and a friend of similar level join the course together, they may opt to pair for their tutorials. Otherwise, the instructor selects the tutorial pairs according to the students’ abilities, availability, and language preference.
4. On application, each student is required to submit a video recording of his or her performance of a piece of their choice.
5. During the course, the student pairs practice each other’s chosen pieces. Proficient sight-reading skills are essential to enable the students to learn new pieces efficiently (see Requirement 2).
6. The course tutorials explore the context and personality of the composers of the chosen pieces, performance reviews, and explorations of nuance and timbre so as to extend each student’s abilities.
7. Near the end of the course, each student submits a final recording to compare with the one they submitted on application.
One-to-one Course
1. This course consists of six tutorials of one hour each, convened once a week over a two-month course duration. The tutorials are offered in either English or Mandarin depending on the student’s preference.
2. To ensure a smooth learning experience, the student needs the following equipment:
- a visual display (i.e., a computer, laptop, tablet, or smartphone) with a microphone for clear communication,
- a metronome, and
- a stable internet connection.
3. On application, the student is required to submit a video recording of his or her performance of a piece of their choice.
4. As well as working on refining his or her presented piece, the student will practice a suitable new piece chosen by the instructor. Proficient sight-reading skills are essential to enable the student to learn new pieces efficiently (see Requirement 2).
5. The course tutorials explore the context and personality of the composers of the chosen pieces, performance reviews, and explorations of nuance and timbre so as to extend the student’s ability.
6. Near the end of the course, the student submits a final recording to compare with the one they submitted on application.
Student Requirements
1. Musical Interpretation Skills
Students should have a foundation in musical interpretation and have the capability to
convey expression and nuance in their performances. They should understand musical phrasing, dynamics, articulation, and stylistic elements specific to various composers and musical periods.
2. Music Theory and Sight-Reading Abilities
Students should possess a strong grasp of music theory concepts and be able to apply them to their repertoire. They should have proficient sight-reading skills to learn new pieces efficiently.
3. Dedication to Practice
Students should be committed to regular personal practice sessions to maintain and develop their advanced piano skills. They should understand the importance of consistent and focused practice for achieving musical growth.
4. Self-Motivation and Curiosity
Students should have a passion for piano playing and a desire to deepen their understanding of their instrument. They should be motivated to explore and learn independently, seeking to expand their musical knowledge and expressiveness.
5. Access to a Suitable Instrument
Students need easy access to a manual piano or a good quality digital piano for the tutorials and regular personal practice sessions.
6. Recording and Evaluation
Students should be open to recording their performances, engaging in critical evaluation, and receiving feedback to help them track their progress and identify areas for improvement.
Course Outline
With small adjustments as described, this outline is applicable to both courses.
Tutorial Week 1: Introduction and Form Analysis
- Introduction to the course and overview of each student’s selected piece.
- Analyzing the form and structural elements of these pieces.
- Discussing musical terms, articulations, and dynamics in various sections based on the structural design.
Tutorial Week 2: Historical Context and Composer Study
- Exploring the background of the composer and his or her historical context.
- Discussing the composer’s personal experiences and emotions that may have influenced the piece.
- Connecting historical and emotional context to the interpretation of the piece.
Tutorial Week 3: Comparative Listening and Interpretation
- Comparing and analyzing various recordings of the pieces to understand the scope of interpretations.
- Discussing the artistic choices made by various performers and the impact of these choices on the overall musical
expression. - Encouraging students to develop their own interpretation based on their analysis and preferences.
Tutorial Week 4: Technique and Practice
- Addressing specific technical challenges within the piece or general technical issues identified by the students.
- Providing guidance and exercises to improve piano technique.
- Focusing on refining specific passages and working on expressive playing.
Tutorial Week 5: Practice and Refinement
(At the instructor’s discretion, students on the Two-to-one Course may each be offered this tutorial as a one-hour, one-to-one tutorial)
- Allowing students to practice the piece under the instructor’s guidance, focusing on details and musical expression.
- Providing individualized feedback and suggestions for improvement.
- Addressing any remaining technical or interpretational challenges.
Following this tutorial, students should record and submit their final performances of their chosen pieces.
Tutorial Week 6: Final Performance Review and Wrap-up
- Reviewing the progress and growth of the students throughout the course.
- Comparing the initial and final recordings to evaluate improvements and development in interpretation and technique.
- Providing feedback and guidance for further development.
June 2023 © All Rights Reserved
HUANG YING-HUA 