9 Steps to MASTER Sight Reading: In this video, we'll explore 9 essential steps to master sight-reading, a crucial skill for pianists. Whether you're a beginner or advanced player, these steps will help you improve your sight-reading abilities. We'll cover topics like rhythm, finger positions, and style. Plus, I'll recommend some helpful books to enhance your practice. By following these steps, you can elevate your piano playing and enjoy the world of music even more.

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An overview of each era of Western classical music with composer suggestions:


Baroque (1600-1750):

Ornate and Elaborate: Baroque music is known for its ornate and highly decorated melodies.

Contrast: It often features sharp contrasts in dynamics (loud and soft) and mood.

Harpsichord: The harpsichord was a prominent keyboard instrument during this era.

Famous Composers:
Johann Sebastian Bach
George Frideric Handel
Antonio Vivaldi


Classical (1750-1820):

Simplicity and Clarity: Classical music is characterized by clear, balanced melodies and harmonies.

Structured Form: Compositions often follow a structured form like sonata-allegro, ternary (ABA), or rondo.

Symphony and Sonata: Important classical forms include the symphony and sonata.

Famous Composers:
Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart
Ludwig van Beethoven
Joseph Haydn

Romantic (1820-1910):

Emotion and Expression: Romantic music emphasizes emotion, passion, and individual expression.

Longer Pieces: Compositions are often longer and more expansive than classical works.

Program Music: The era saw the rise of program music, where pieces tell a story or depict scenes.

Famous Composers:
Richard Wagner
Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky
Johannes Brahms


20th Century (1900-2000):

Diversity and Experimentation: The 20th century saw a wide range of styles and experimentation, from atonal music to minimalism. In the 20th century, Jazz and Impressionism were two significant musical movements. Jazz, originating in the United States, is known for its improvisation, syncopation, and bluesy harmonies, with iconic figures like Louis Armstrong and Duke Ellington shaping its evolution. Impressionism, originating in France, is characterised by its ethereal and evocative soundscapes, often inspired by visual art and nature. Composers like Claude Debussy and Maurice Ravel created music with rich harmonies and delicate textures, leaving a lasting impact on various 20th-century musical genres.

Atonality: Some composers abandoned traditional tonality and explored dissonance.

Electronic Music: Electronic instruments and recording technology played a significant role.

Famous Composers:
Igor Stravinsky
Arnold Schoenberg
Dmitri Shostakovich


21st Century (2000-Present):
Eclecticism: Contemporary classical music often draws from a variety of styles and cultures.

Technology Integration: Advances in technology have influenced composition and performance.

Minimalism Continues: Minimalism, characterised by repetitive patterns, remains influential.

Famous Composers:
John Williams
Philip Glass
Hans Zimmer

These composer suggestions represent just a small selection of the many influential composers from each era, and there are many more to explore within the rich history of classical music.