Learn Keyboard (Music) with Free Lessons & Tips

Many people are unaware of the differences between a keyboard and a piano. A piano is a keyboard musical instrument in which the sound comes from felt-covered hammers striking wire strings in the body. A keyboard may have the same number of keys but is an electronic instrument that is smaller and easier to transport. read less

Johann Sebastian Bach's keyboard music can sound great on all three instruments, but the most authentic and suitable choice depends on the specific piece and the desired sound: 1. _Harpsichord_: Bach's Baroque-era music was primarily written for the harpsichord, which provides a bright, crisp sound. Harpsichord is ideal for: - Inventions - Sinfonias - Partitas - English Suites 2. _Organ_: Bach was a master organist, and his organ music takes advantage of the instrument's unique capabilities. Organ is ideal for: - Toccatas - Fantasias - Preludes - Fugues 3. _Piano_: While Bach didn't write specifically for the piano (it wasn't invented during his lifetime), his music can be adapted to the piano. Piano is suitable for: - Transcriptions of harpsichord or organ works - Smaller-scale pieces like the Inventions or Sinfonias - Expressive, nuanced performances of Bach's more introspective works Keep in mind that Bach's music is versatile, and different instruments can bring unique perspectives to his compositions. Harpsichord and organ provide a more historically authentic sound, while piano offers a more expressive, Romantic interpretation. read less

Rubato, or expressive tempo flexibility, is a delicate matter in Baroque keyboard music. While some flexibility is acceptable, excessive rubato can compromise the music's structural integrity and stylistic authenticity. In Baroque music, a moderate amount of rubato is suitable for: 1. Emotional expression: Adding nuance and feeling to melodies, especially in slower movements. 2. Rhetorical emphasis: Highlighting important musical ideas or cadences. 3. Ornamentation: Accommodating intricate ornaments and trills. However, excessive rubato can lead to: 1. Distortion of rhythm and meter 2. Disruption of the music's forward momentum 3. Loss of clarity and articulation As a general guideline, consider the following: - In faster movements, maintain a relatively steady tempo, with subtle rubato for emphasis. - In slower movements, more expressive rubato is acceptable, but avoid excessive slowing or dragging. - In general, aim for a balance between expression and structural integrity. Some notable Baroque keyboard performers and their approaches to rubato include: - Gustav Leonhardt (harpsichord): subtle, restrained rubato - Glenn Gould (piano): distinctive, expressive rubato - Ton Koopman (harpsichord): nuanced, flexible rubato Remember, the key is to find a balance between expression and authenticity, respecting the composer's intent while adding your own musicality. read less