Stretching Exercises From Martial Arts and Preconditioning Piano Exercises With Scores and Video Demonstrations to Prepare Pianists for Practice and Performance Without Physical Tension
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Date
2021-06
Authors
Sin, Anson Ka-lik
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
University of Oregon
Abstract
The project will focus on how warm-up exercises are a vitally important activity for
pianists both mentally and physically. I will research the best methods for pianists to warm up
before piano practice, lessons, and performance. Warm-up exercises should include a variety of
physical and mental elements, such as: activating the kinesthetic sense, body mapping the
arms/hands, creating a ready-to-play mode, breathing, as well as creating a positive mindset. The
project will also illustrate how to apply these elements to optimize the warm-up exercises.
Additionally, several stretching exercises from the Chinese martial arts (Qigong) will be
explained and demonstrated as to how they are beneficial to piano warm-up exercises.
Pianists are often able to learn much better through practical application at the piano,
rather than trying to absorb abstract information. Applying the above strategies will transform
the ways pianists approach the piano to produce a better quality of movement, reduce tension and
prevent pain. A pianist who is completely warmed up can better concentrate on the creation of
sound, musical gesture, and interpretation.
Please note: In this document, I will use the word “warm up” as a noun, and “warm-up”
as an adjective.
Description
79 pages