Understanding 7-2 Repertoire Selection
Key Concepts Related to 7-2 Repertoire Selection
Repertoire selection involves choosing pieces that showcase the performer's skills and are appropriate for the intended audience and occasion. Factors to consider include the difficulty level of the piece, the performer's strengths, and the stylistic preferences of the audience.
Explanation of Each Concept
1. Difficulty Level
The difficulty level of a piece refers to the technical and musical challenges it presents. Selecting a piece that is too easy may not fully showcase the performer's abilities, while a piece that is too difficult may result in a subpar performance. It's important to choose a piece that stretches the performer's skills without overwhelming them.
2. Performer's Strengths
Repertoire selection should highlight the performer's strengths, whether they are technical proficiency, expressive capabilities, or a particular style of music. Choosing pieces that align with the performer's strengths ensures a more confident and compelling performance.
3. Audience and Occasion
The audience and the occasion play a significant role in repertoire selection. Different audiences have varying musical tastes and expectations. For example, a classical concert audience may prefer traditional pieces, while a modern audience might enjoy contemporary compositions. The occasion, whether it's a formal recital or a casual gathering, also dictates the appropriate style and length of the pieces.
Examples and Analogies
1. Difficulty Level
Think of the difficulty level as choosing the right level of a video game. Just as you wouldn't start with the hardest level if you're a beginner, you shouldn't choose a piece that is far beyond your current skill level. For example, a beginner pianist should start with simple pieces like "Twinkle, Twinkle, Little Star," while an advanced pianist might tackle more complex works like Beethoven's "Moonlight Sonata."
2. Performer's Strengths
Consider the performer's strengths as the ingredients in a recipe. Just as a chef uses their best ingredients to create a delicious dish, a performer should use their strongest skills to create a memorable performance. For instance, a vocalist with a powerful voice might choose a piece like "Nessun Dorma" by Puccini, while a pianist with exceptional technical skills might select a piece like Chopin's "Etude Op. 10, No. 3."
3. Audience and Occasion
Think of the audience and occasion as the context for a story. Just as a storyteller tailors their tale to the audience and setting, a performer should select pieces that resonate with the audience and fit the occasion. For example, a classical piece like Bach's "Air on the G String" might be perfect for a formal event, while a pop song like "Shape of You" by Ed Sheeran could be ideal for a casual party.
Practical Application
To practice repertoire selection, start by assessing your current skills and identifying your strengths. Next, consider the audience and the occasion for your performance. Browse through different pieces and select a few that match your skill level and align with your strengths. Finally, practice these pieces and refine your performance to ensure it meets the expectations of your audience and occasion. This practice will help you develop a diverse and appropriate repertoire for various performances.