Nomads, Piano Solo, Late Elementary. Studio License
Nomads was commissioned by Nicola Cantan for Vibrant Music Teaching’s Concept Collection Five: Un-Position.
As a piano teacher for over 30 years, I see how easy it is for students to get “stuck” in certain hand positions! But of course, “real” music isn’t written that way. Students must learn to explain their keyboard geography beyond 5 finger positions!
As a composer preparing for this project, I pondered the word, “move”, since that is what we are asking the students to do - move their hand positions. I found 2 different definitions for move: 1. to physically move from place to place and 2. emotionally - we can be “moved" by a beautiful piece of music. I enjoyed exploring both of these possibilities.
Nomads, who are known for their adventurous spirit and moving from place to place; I thought would be a good representation of physically moving. This Elementary piece asks the student to physically jump from position to position, as seen in m. 1 - 4. In measures 5 - 8, I use sequences to ask the student to extend their 5th finger to reach each new position. The tempo called for can be quick, but move along at your own pace. Notice the ritardando at the end to ease your travelers into their new home - it also gives the student time to find the last notes. And notice the dynamics! Expressive playing always makes the piece sound better!
Key: E Natural Minor with accidentals
Time signature: 4/4 , BPM = 180.
Skill development:
Moving hand positions by jumping or extension. Lyrical playing. Dynamics. Note reading.
What level: Late Elementary
How long: Cover + 1 page music. Performance time :40.
This is a STUDIO LICENSE: One purchase - One person is allowed multiple copies for students in their Studio. Thank you for honoring the creativity and work of the composer.
