Sunday, December 24, 2017

HAPPY CHRISTMAS!

As another year draws to a close, I hope you have enjoyed reading my blog and, if you are a piano student, have found it useful. Here are the top ten blog posts of the year – many are perennially popular and have appeared on my Christmas ‘favourites’ list many times!

1. How long will it take to learn to play the piano?

2. 10 reasons to play the piano

3. A few thoughts on playing Chopin’s Nocturne No. 20 in C sharp minor Op. Posth.

4. Resolving tension in piano playing

5. Structured piano practice in 5 simple steps

6. 10 tips to seriously improve your piano playing in 2016

7. Why is Grade 5 theory important?

8. 9 top tips for practising octaves

9. A few thoughts on Beethoven’s Fur Elise

10. Contemporary piano music?

The most popular post of all (How long does it take to learn to play the piano?) has been in the top spot every year since this blog’s inception. It’s clearly an important question, to which there are many answers! If you would like me to write on a particular piano topic, you can always write via my contact page (here on the blog). I look forward to hearing from you.

WISHING YOU ALL A VERY HAPPY PEACEFUL CHRISTMAS


My Publications:

For much more information about how to practice piano repertoire, take a look at my two-book piano course, Play it again: PIANO (Schott). Covering a huge array of styles and genres, 49 progressive pieces from approximately Grade 1 – 8 level are featured, with at least two pages of practice tips for every piece. A convenient and beneficial course for students of any age, with or without a teacher, and it can also be used alongside piano examination syllabuses too.

You can find out more about my other piano publications and compositions here.


 

 

 




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Wednesday, December 20, 2017

A masterclass with Stephen Hough

I recently discovered this interesting selection of videos (which appear on YouTube) highlighting masterclasses given by eminent British pianist Stephen Hough. They were recorded in last year (2016) at the Aspen Music Festival and School in the USA.

Featuring a wide range of standard repertoire (Including Reflect dans l’eau by Debussy (Images Book 1), the third and fourth movement of Sonata No. 2 in B flat minor Op. 35 by Chopin, and first movement of Sonata in A flat major Op. 110 by Beethoven), they are performed by students at the school. As so often found when observing public classes, there is much to learn and absorb from each one. I hope you enjoy them.




My Publications:

For much more information about how to practice piano repertoire, take a look at my two-book piano course, Play it again: PIANO (Schott). Covering a huge array of styles and genres, 49 progressive pieces from approximately Grade 1 – 8 level are featured, with at least two pages of practice tips for every piece. A convenient and beneficial course for students of any age, with or without a teacher, and it can also be used alongside piano examination syllabuses too.

You can find out more about my other piano publications and compositions here.


 




from Melanie Spanswick http://ift.tt/2BLpVXf

Monday, December 18, 2017

Bordeaux Luxury Living – Prices, Plans, Availability

Artist rendering of Bourdeaux luxury condominiiums at Willingdon & Juneau in Burnaby, BC.

At a Glance

  • located near Brentwood Town Centre
  • 141 concrete luxury apartment residences
  • 62 adaptable condos
  • 7 x 3-bedroom townhouses
  • 6,509.5 sq ft of amenities
  • walking distance to shopping, services, restaurants
  • near Skytrain & Highway 1
  • goal of LEED Silver

In the Heart of Vibrant Brentwood
Just on the heels of the award-winning Milano development a few blocks away, Solterra is poised to develop another outstanding community in one of the hottest real estate markets in the Lower Mainland. The emerging community of Brentwood in Burnaby continues to exponentially grow with shopping, dining, and recreational amenities on the horizon – including the current expansion of Brentwood Town Centre. With a strong long-term community plan in place, this neighborhood is one of the most sought after for both investors and homeowners alike.

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Bordeaux is minutes from Lougheed Highway which makes it ideal for easy commuting via public transit or private car. An existing abundance of essential establishments such as Whole Foods, Browns Socialhouse, liquor stores, and financial services are all just steps away. Bordeaux will feature stellar interior design and finishing details, and superior construction quality that Solterra is known for. Included are luxurious imported Italian kitchens, premium appliances, air conditioning, oversized outdoor spaces, and an array of building amenities.

Pricing for Bordeaux
This development is currently in its pre-construction phase. Therefore, Solterra have not yet published final pricing information. We recommend that you sign up to our VIP list above for priority access to Bordeaux updates.

Floor Plans for Bordeaux
Bordeaux offers an exciting ownership opportunity for first-time buyers and families alike, with the following mix of residences:

  • 42 x studio (adaptable) from 464 – 525 sq ft
  • 14 x 1-bedroom at 545 sq ft
  • 54 x 2-bedroom from 760 – 2,258 sq ft
  • 6 x 2-bedroom (adaptable) from 854 – 1,003 sq ft
  • 2 x 2-bedroom + den from 978 – 1,520 sq ft
  • 14 x 2-bedroom + den (adaptable) from 940 – 1,017 sq ft
  • 2 x 3-bedroom from 973 – 1,095 sq ft
  • 6 x 3-bedroom + den townhouse at 1,743 sq ft
  • 1 x 2-bedroom + den townhouse at 1,333 sq ft

Contact me today to discuss availability and plans according to your needs.

Amenities at Bordeaux
Residents will enjoy 6,509.5 sq ft of amenity space, including a gym, business centre, yoga studio, washrooms and meeting room / game room / party room with kitchenette. An expansive landscaped courtyard contains a children’s play area, barbeque area, and seating. A public art piece will be installed in a plaza at the comer of Willingdon Avenue and Juneau Street.

Parking and Storage
Parking will be located partially underground (3 levels) and partially within an above ground structure (1 level), with 216 apartment parking spaces (inclusive of 27 visitor spaces) and 13 townhouse parking spaces (inclusive of 2 visitor spaces). Of these, there will be three accessible parking stalls, 22 electric vehicle charging stations, and two car wash stalls. Bicycle storage will be provided by 296 resident bicycle spaces and 30 visitor bicycle spaces. A two-station bicycle repair/maintenance area and bike trailer storage area will also be available. One residential loading space is to be allocated.

Maintenance Fees at Bordeaux
TBA.

Developer Team for Bordeaux
Solterra Group of Companies specializes in developing and building top-quality high-rise residences and town homes. Over the past 15 years, the team at Solterra has been involved with the development of many award-winning multi-residential communities throughout the Lower Mainland. Solterra understands the importance of a “home” and pride themselves on creating residences that feature exceptional design, solid construction, and quality finishes. For your added peace of mind, Solterra homes are backed by third-party 2/5/10 warranty insurance.

GBL Architects is a progressive Vancouver-based firm of 38 architects, project managers and technicians with a 25-year reputation of providing a full range of architectural services to the private and public sector. GBL design with the belief that form plays a vital role in defining experience through an ever-changing dynamic between sculptural artistry and social responsibility. To that end, they regularly practice green design through the LEED Canada Program.

Expected Completion for Bordeaux
TBA. Sales begin Spring 2018.

Are you interested in learning more about other homes in Brentwood, Lougheed, or Metrotown?

Check out these great Brentwood Presales!

The post Bordeaux Luxury Living – Prices, Plans, Availability appeared first on Mike Stewart.



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Friday, December 15, 2017

Who are the men who buy Panty by Post panties

Profiling the men who buy Panty by Post panties?
 
Now now, don’t jump to conclusions, it’s not always the ones associated with scandal and secrecy – sometimes, but not always!  This is about the men behind purchasing the  panties as a gift for their darlings. We decided to profile our valued male customers as our way of tipping the hat to the guys in our lives who show us they care.
 
Mr Adventurous: This man samples our Naughty but Nice line for his special someone. He’s not afraid to splash out on a more exclusive panty, or shall we say undies for a special occasions (wink). He’s a whisky drinker, a bit of a rebel and he likes to spoil his girl with frilly underpinnings.
 
Mr Classic: This dapper chap likes to buy the best for his other-half. He shops our Premium Line and prioritizes  its arrival every month with his personalized note attached. He knows how to share his feelings and always puts her first/. A good listener, he loves long walks in the forest on the weekend and his heart bursts when his love is happy.
 
Mr Fashionable:
He’s a metrosexual  high-flying traveler and an on-point foodie who loves to be in the know. He thrives onto planning dates at far out spots and usually comes bearing gifts of Signature Line panties. These undies are both pretty and practical, marrying his love of lace with your love of comfort. Each pair has a touch of flare, and quality you can truly feel. These are your go-to panties for your cinq a sept cocktail hour! Thanks lover!
 
Mr Sporty: This man doesn’t stop! He’s athletic and outdoorsy; he loves to keep his body moving and in shape. His favorite times are spent running in the trees with his partner, or swooshing down the slopes beside her. He buys her the basic line, so she is comfortable during all their fun-filled activities. He’s healthy and loves to support his team mate in the adventure they call life!

The post Who are the men who buy Panty by Post panties appeared first on Panty by Post.



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A Christmas Friday Freebie!

As the festive season is nearly upon us, I’m offering a special Christmas gift for my readers. American teacher, composer and arranger Carol Matz is no stranger to my blog; I have previously featured several of her piano pieces and arrangements.

Carol’s new Interactive Piano Method® is a unique method for beginners (which takes pianists up to elementary level at present) that includes lesson books with corresponding online materials. Students can access the online activities (such as theory games, ear training, virtual flashcards, note spelling, etc.) on any computer or tablet, and get instant feedback on their answers. Teachers can even work with students in the lesson, checking in on their progress during the week.

Each level includes a Lesson Book, Online Activities, PDF Downloads (Performance Pieces, Activity Sheets, Sight-Reading, Technique), as well as MP3 teacher duet accompaniments. The Lesson Book is also provided as a downloadable PDF which can be printed and/or used on a tablet (such as an iPad, or Android tablet). Currently, levels 1A, 1B, 2A, and 2B are available.

As a special holiday giveaway for my readers, Carol is offering each one of you a free level of your choice. You may choose to receive either the US version or the recently released AUS/UK Edition.

Here’s a quick video featuring some of the online activities:

 

To claim your free level:

  1. First, click here.
  2. Add one “Digital-Only Package” of any level to your cart (retail value $18.95 USD).
  3. Apply the Coupon Code: MELANIEROCKS (that was Carol’s idea!)
  4. Proceed through checkout (your total will be $0.00).

This offer will be available for one week only (from today), and I hope it might inspire those who have yet to learn to play the piano (a new year’s resolution?). It may also be useful for teachers looking for a different approach in their teaching. Enjoy!

Carol Matz has composed and arranged over 300 published titles for piano students. An experienced piano teacher herself, Carol has presented numerous piano-teaching workshops throughout the United States, Canada, England, New Zealand, and Australia. She is well-known for her “Famous & Fun” series (Alfred).


My Publications:

For much more information about how to practice piano repertoire, take a look at my two-book piano course, Play it again: PIANO (Schott). Covering a huge array of styles and genres, 49 progressive pieces from approximately Grade 1 – 8 level are featured, with at least two pages of practice tips for every piece. A convenient and beneficial course for students of any age, with or without a teacher, and it can also be used alongside piano examination syllabuses too.

You can find out more about my other piano publications and compositions here.


 




from Melanie Spanswick http://ift.tt/2BprtG6

Wednesday, December 13, 2017

Commission Calculator for BC Realtor Fees in Vancouver with Net Proceeds for Sellers

Vancouver Commission Calculator Real Estate

Thinking of Selling a Property in Vancouver? Get Advice for Proven Results Here!

How much are real estate fees in Vancouver, BC?

I charge a real estate commission of 7% on the 1st $100,000 and 2.5% on the balance of the sale price for properties in Vancouver.

Thinking of Selling?

Use this form to find out how to sell your home sooner and for more money.

Are you a realtor? Click here

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Around half (50%) of the 7% on the 1st $100,000 and 2.5% on the balance is payable to a buyers agent who brings the seller an offer that completes at the Land Titles Office.

According to Canada’s Competition Act, there we Realtors are not supposed to say there is a standard real estate commission.

Real Estate commissions and the net proceeds (ie the amount a Seller receives from a real estate sale after costs) are often confusing for prospective property Sellers in Vancouver.

Most Sellers aren’t sure about how much commission they will have to pay (Check out my great video on what I charge for Real Estate Commissions) and how much tax (GST/HST) will be payable on the real estate commission fee once the property sells.

This calculator clears up this confusion!

Realtor Commissions with GST Calculated!

All you need to do is input the potential sale price of the property in question (Not sure how much the sale price is? Check out this great video on Comparative Market Analysis or call me at 604-763-3136!) in the form above.

Then click “Calculate” and you will get the sale proceeds from the property after all the real estate commissions and HST/GST on the commission are deducted. Basically, this commission calculator lets you know how much you will end up with in your pocket when you sell your property in Vancouver after all is said and done.

Remember Folks! There is no standard or average real estate commission fee in Vancouver and across Canada and your Realtor fees are negotiable always!

Remember! Around 50% of the Commission calculated above goes to the Buyers Agent who brings an offer that gets accepted and Completes at the Land Titles Office!

Buyers Looking to Calculate Commissions on a Purchase?

The good news is that in 99% of the time Buyers of Property in Vancouver DO NOT directly pay commission to their Buyers Agent. To learn more check out this informative video on how Buyers Agents get paid in Vancouver!

Looking for advice on selling a home in Vancouver? Check out these great videos on How to Sell a Home in Vancouver!

Wondering How Much Tax There Might be on The Sale Proceeds of Your Property in Canada?

Check out this great video on the definition of a Primary Residence in Canada!

The post Commission Calculator for BC Realtor Fees in Vancouver with Net Proceeds for Sellers appeared first on Mike Stewart.



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Fraser Commons – Prices, Availability, Plans

Artist rendering of aerial perspective of Fraser Commons.

At a Glance

  • located at the corner of Fraser Street & Marine Drive
  • transit-oriented, mixed-use
  • 4 buildings from 5 – 22 storeys
  • 368 condominiums
  • 37-space childcare facility
  • courtyard & plaza
  • park & roof garden

Artist rendering of the central community park at Fraser Commons.

South Vancouver Starts Here
Serracan has teamed up with Walter Francl Architects for this extensive regeneration project. It’s set to change how the city sees this part of South Vancouver. Following an enhanced community consultation process with local residents, Serracan successfully rezoned the property into a new project with a central park and roof garden flanked by four residential buildings. Serviced by neighbourhood retail amenities, an on-site daycare, and neighbourhood house, the project will stand as a key anchor on the revitalized, new Fraser Street. The project received unanimous urban design panel approval, unanimous council approval, and remarkable community support.

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Pricing for Fraser Commons
As this development is in pre-construction, Serracan have not yet made public pricing details. Sign up to our VIP list above for priority access to Fraser Commons updates.

Floor Plans for Fraser Commons
The following mix of residences are proposed for Fraser Commons:

  • 48 x studio
  • 99 x 1-bedroom
  • 61 x 1-bedroom + den
  • 71 x 2-bedroom
  • 69 x 2-bedroom + den
  • 10 x 3-bedroom
  • 10 x townhouse

Contact me today to discuss availability and plans according to your needs.

Serracan Properties' transit-oriented, mixed-use development at Fraser & Marine.

Amenities at Fraser Commons
Residents will enjoy shared use of a 3,046-sq-ft residential amenity space on Level 2 of the southwest tower, adjacent to the retail space. There will also be a roof deck with an adjoining 445-sq-ft indoor amenity space. At the heart of Fraser commons is a 1/4-acre community park with a lawn surrounded by evergreen, low, shrub plantings, and an arc of deciduous shade trees. At the bottom of the sloped park, a paved courtyard accommodates six parking stalls for daycare use and three loading spaces for the buildings. A small, pedestrian-only, plaza is surrounded by two lobbies and a café space with a patio. Approximately 15,500 sq ft of retail space is available for shops and services.

Parking and Storage
Three levels of underground parking will provide 345 residential and 26 commercial vehicle spaces. Six daycare parking spaces are available in the courtyard. Bicycle parking will include 460 residential and four commercial Class A spaces, and six residential and six commercial Class B spaces. Loading facilities will be available with one Class A and two Class B loading areas. Over 12,000 sq ft of secure residential storage is slated for the parkade.

Maintenance Fees at Fraser Commons
TBA.

Chester Street perspective of Fraser Commons development project.

Developer Team for Fraser Commons
Serracan is a Vancouver-based real estate development company committed to creating urban, commercial and mixed-use developments that combine the ideal elements to transform our communities and our city. It is a private company with real estate holdings in Western Canada. Serracan is known for being entrepreneurial, with a strong operational competency, integrity, and a long history of solid relationships. Their leadership team has partnered with significant public and private sector companies on nearly every class of real estate – mixed use, commercial, and residential.

Award-winning Francl Architecture has primarily focused its work for both public and private clients within the City of Vancouver over the past 25 years, giving the firm an intimate knowledge of the evolution of the civic fabric and an awareness of its potentials. Their diverse portfolio reflects a commitment to an interactive design process that builds on a clear understanding of their clients’ and users’ needs.

Expected Completion for Fraser Commons
TBA. Sales begin in Spring 2018.

Are you interested in learning more about other homes in the Cambie Corridor, Mount Pleasant, or Southeast False Creek?

Check out these great Cambie Corridor Presales!

The post Fraser Commons – Prices, Availability, Plans appeared first on Mike Stewart.



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Tuesday, December 12, 2017

ISB Alum comes in the Top 5 in the Miss Universe Competition

We are so incredibly proud of ISB Alum, Maria Lynn Ehren, Class of 2010, for coming in the top 5 at the recent Miss Universe Pageant. Maria took some time in her busy schedule to chat to us about her time here at ISB:

“ISB was really where I spent some of my best years in life. Learning, growing, and most importantly creating the base of what I find important in life, while having a lot of fun (and a lot of stressful times with the full IB program but it was so worth it!). I’ll always remember the feeling of arriving at ISB, being greeted by the zig zag with its majestic vibes and koi fish swimming all around. This is just the surface of how grand my experience was there. The teachers I had really impacted the way I thought about the world and the interests I had in certain topics. For example, Mr Krocker (my English teacher) made me realize that life could be nihilistic, or existential. Of course, I choose existential. Mr Krekel (my IB HL economics teacher) made sure I backed up and supported my thoughts with simple and logical reasoning. Mr Mackey (my 9th grade math teacher) made sure I ran like mad to be on time. Ropes course was one of my favorite classes! Team building and fun exercises: Ready? Ready. Falling? Fall. These are instances from just the end of high school…so many other teachers have impacted my life, of which I’m so grateful for today. But something I can’t leave out is the friendships I made along the way. Moving there in 3rd grade, I was kind of the odd one out. Tall and lanky, shy. I put my focus into studying and became pretty good in most subjects (except for PE). I made friends and they made school worth waking up at 5am for me. Through it all the biggest lesson of all is that we need each other to move forward. It’s important to build relationships and be there for one another. That’s something that I actually want to continue to work on. I want to push team building activities to Thai students, because with team building you learn about trust, respect for others, and respect for yourself. Whoever is at ISB now, my advice is just to take every moment and live it. Make sure to get as much out of your time there as possible because as soon as you know it, it will be over. The memories will last so make great ones!”

Maria is the second Miss Universe Thailand to graduate from ISB. Our first was Charm Osathanond, who won Miss Universe Thailand in 2006. Many of Maria’s teachers are still at ISB today and we were all voting and cheering for Maria, following the pageant closely, because she is a part of our community but also because it is a wonderful achievement for Thailand.

“The support and love that I received from family, colleagues, Miss Universe sisters, and what I never could have even imagined, a sense of harmonious support from my country, are the most valuable aspects that I take away from this experience. I have grown personally in my actions and in my thoughts, learned priceless lessons, and had made valuable memories through these past few months, and I couldn’t have done it without the support of my country. THANK YOU FROM THE BOTTOM OF MY HEART, everyone who gave me encouraging words, who spent countless hours packing/deciding/planning, and for retweeting and voting and getting your friends and students and family and more to vote too,” Maria shared on her Facebook page.

“We are very proud of Maria! Winning Miss Thailand Universe and then finishing as a top 5 finalist in the Miss Universe competition are incredible accomplishments. Maria has represented Thailand and ISB supremely well and I know the ISB community is overjoyed at the news. Congratulations, Maria!” shared Dr Andrew Davies, Head of School, International School Bangkok (ISB)

Maria



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Monday, December 11, 2017

Selecting & Practising Piano Exam Repertoire: Trinity College London Grade 5

Continuing with my series surveying piano exam repertoire, today’s post examines Trinity College London Grade 5. A collection of diverse and well-chosen pieces, List A comprises composers such as Richard Jones, Anton Diabelli, Moritz Vogel and Dmitri Kabalevsky!

The exercises, of which each candidate must prepare three (played alongside scales and arpeggios), can help with various technical issues within the pieces, so with this in mind, it’s prudent to select (if possible) those with similar technical and musical elements. Here’s my suggested programme, which provides a smorgasbord of mediterranean flavoured delicacies, plus five tips for those working at the pieces.

  1. Capriccio in G by Domenico Scarlatti (1685 – 1757)

A lively, exacting work which will keep pianists on their toes. In G major (it may be helpful to refresh the scale and arpeggio at this time), Italian composer Scarlatti’s huge keyboard output (over 550 sonatas) were intended to be played on the harpsichord, and therefore demanding precise articulation. This type of precision can be a useful exercise, as mastering finger control and hand position changes helps prepare for more advanced repertoire.

  1. Chords appear at various points (Bars 1 – 2, 31 – 32, & 59 – 60). They will require some extra arm weight and sound in order to project (especially at the beginning and end of the work). There’s often much homophonic (chordal) movement in Scarlatti’s keyboard music; it might be beneficial to begin by working on these chords, balancing the hand, so the notes sound altogether (despite usually being spread or arpeggiated on the harpsichord!). Chords can provide ‘anchors’ at various points, not just proffering a richer texture, but adding shape and fostering a steady pulse.
  2. Ornaments (embellishments or added notes) are prevalent throughout this work, and for many can cause grief. when working separate hands, aim to choose fingering which accommodates the ornament (if marked), but which you can play without adding it. Then work at the entire piece (practising hands separately and together) without the embellishments (this will help awareness of the musical and dynamic shape). Add them into the piece only when you can play it sufficiently well i.e. without many hesitations or inaccuracies. If added earlier, ornaments tend to destabilise the pulse, and can cause a host of rhythmical issues. Therefore, sort this out beforehand by not playing them until confident.
  3. Ornaments occur in the right hand, and are generally mordents (a particular ornament or trill) of some kind. In the example to the left; the first mordent is sometimes known as an ‘upper’ mordent and the second (with the line through it), a ‘lower’ mordent. Underneath illustrates how they might be played. In the Trinity exam book, it’s been suggested that they might be played as triplets (three semiquavers per mordent), which works well. Try to isolate each embellishment, working thoroughly with your chosen fingers, playing heavily and deeply into the key bed. Then when you lighten your touch and play faster, they should sound and feel even.
  4. Each semiquaver pattern (group of four to every crotchet) must be even rhythmically, with plenty of clear, crisp articulation. To practice, aim to play every note with a deep touch (as already suggested for the ornaments), and ensure fingers leave notes accurately (i.e. not holding on or over lapping with the next note). Equally important is to place notes exactly. Either use a metronome, set on a semiquaver beat (when practising slowly), or count every single semiquaver aloud as you play. This should help alleviate any rushing or lingering!
  5. Good coordination is vital. There’s nothing as helpful as playing a quarter of the speed, hands together, working two (or one) bars at a time. Careful work at bars 15 – 18 (and all similar), where the left hand has rapid passage work, will be necessary. Don’t ignore staccato markings and short slurs – they contribute shape and energy.


2. Dedicatoria (from Cuentos de la juventud, Op. 1) by Enrique Granados (1867 – 1916)

A tranquil, reflective work which contrasts nicely with the Scarlatti, written by Spanish composer Enrique Granados. It hails from the set entitled Stories for the Young, and the first piece of the group is Dedicatoria.  Granados’ piano music is often complex, so it’s refreshing to hear a relatively simplistic piece which still captures his distinctive style and harmonic language.

  1. A cantabile approach will work well in the right hand, where all the melodic material is placed. There are three layers of sound here; the left hand accompaniment, the right hand ‘inner’ part and the melody, which forms the top line. I would begin by playing the top line alone, taking care to use the fingering you intend to use whan combining the two right hand parts together. Focus on producing a rich, warm sound, joining as many notes together as possible in a legato fashion (and if this isn’t possible, aim to create the illusion of legato, by holding down the note until the very last moment, matching the sound of the dying note with that of the next one.
  2. The ‘inner’ part or line can also be practised alone; try to play with a full sound until notes and fingerings are secure, and then lighten your touch keeping a firm triplet beat. Counting in three equal quaver beats per crotchet throughout can help, remembering to leave a quaver rest at the beginning of the beat (for the tune). If you practice using a firm pulse to begin with, it will feel easier to relax it when eventually adding rubato.
  3. When combining the two parts (melody and ‘inner’ parts in the right hand), aim to weight the hand towards the weaker fingers (i.e. the fourth and fifth fingers). The melody will need the support from the hand, wrist and arm, because a deeper sound is required. Experiment by moving the hand and wrist fractionally, away from the body. The middle or inner parts should ideally be much lighter, as they play an accompaniment role. The larger leaps at bars 9 & 11 might need fast-slow practice (moving much quicker than needed at first, then slowing the leap down, so it feels comfortable). Place the semiquaver (bar 10 & 12, right hand), slightly after the last triplet quaver of the inner part.
  4. The left hand must be soft, light and supportive. Smooth legato will work best, and try to keep fingers depressed until the very last possible moment, particularly when playing the minims in bars 10, 11, 12 and all similar.
  5. The sustaining pedal will add an expressive warmth and resonance if used, as directed, on virtually every crotchet beat. Observe tempo changes and strive for a really soft, distant ending.


3. Spanish Dancer (from Les Miroirs de MirĂ³) by Edwin Roxburgh (1937 – )

Continuing with the Spanish theme, this energetic work might transport the listener to Seville for an evening of Flamenco dancing, complete with guitar effects! But for me, it represents a more serious, contemplative Spanish character.  Written by British composer Edwin Roxburgh, it requires a sure sense of pulse, which calls for a solid rhythmical grip.

  1. The triplet rhythm will probably need some attention; start by clapping the rhythm, taking the issue away from the keyboard. Place the semiquaver triplets carefully, whilst counting in quavers throughout. To play the triplets (which are in the right hand at the opening), practice the figuration (an E & B played together followed by an F) as a chord first of all, then loosen the wrist  and move (the hand and wrist) quickly from right to left (and back again), supporting the fifth finger on the E (and second finger, which will probably be used to play the B in the opening bars). Place more emphasis on the E & B and play the thumb, slightly lighter.
  2. The triplet figuration moves into the left hand from bar 3, as part of the accompaniment; in order to fully sound all three notes, without missing any out or producing a ‘jerky’ unrhythmical accompaniment, as always, play the whole accompaniment powerfully, into the key bed, then when the patterns are lightened, the triplets will hopefully sound even. Aim to play them softer than the melody.
  3. The simple but vibrant tune consists of short phrases (which are interrupted at various points with the introductory two bars, or a variation on them). Generally, the phrase develops as it progresses, making a fuller sound necessary towards the end. For example, at bar 10 – 13, which become increasingly dramatic, climaxing at the quasi cadenza (which is ad. lib, or played with a certain amount of freedom). This also happens at bars 19 – 23, perhaps reminiscent of a Spanish guitarist.
  4. In keeping with the Spanish feel, accents, pauses, staccato & tenuto markings abound and their inclusion in any performance will determine its success. With this in mind, it might be prudent to add such details in towards the beginning of the learning process, so they become a natural part of the piece, as opposed to an afterthought.
  5. The sustaining pedal should ideally be out in force here, and is a much-needed addition, amplifying the sound. But caution is required! Too much of a good thing will obscure finger work and more importantly, harmonies, and this is particularly true of the third beat of the bar (at bars 1 – 2 and the like), where the pedalling has been carefully omitted.

My Publications:

For much more information about how to practice piano repertoire, take a look at my two-book piano course, Play it again: PIANO (Schott). Covering a huge array of styles and genres, 49 progressive pieces from approximately Grade 1 – 8 level are featured, with at least two pages of practice tips for every piece. A convenient and beneficial course for students of any age, with or without a teacher, and it can also be used alongside piano examination syllabuses too.

You can find out more about my other piano publications and compositions here.


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Thursday, December 7, 2017

Juneau – Prices, Plans, Availability

Juneau is a Burnaby condominium development in the Brentwood Town Centre neighbourhood.

At a Glance

  • located at Willingdon Avenue & Juneau Street
  • 23-storey concrete highrise
  • 147 gallery-inspired homes
  • five townhomes
  • 5,181 sq ft of amenity space
  • rentals & pets allowed
  • walking distance to Brentwood Town Centre shopping
  • steps from Skytrain rapid transit
  • close to Burnaby Lake Regional Park

Confident. Connected. Classic.
With striking terraced architecture, Juneau by Amacon presents a visual gateway to Brentwood Town Centre. Set back from Willingdon Avenue, Juneau is positioned in a place where the word “neighbourhood” means vibrancy, inclusion, and fulfillment. Walk to nearby amenities and easily access downtown Vancouver and beyond on the rapid transit line or connecting highways.

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This timeless collection of 1-, 2-, and 3-bedroom concrete condos and townhomes feature thoughtfully-curated interiors and quality construction. Live in an open-concept home where simplicity is elegant and clean lines are refined. Experience boutique living in Brentwood.

Pricing for Juneau
Juneau is currently in pre-construction. Sign up to our VIP list above for priority access to Juneau updates and pricing information.

Floor Plans for Juneau
Juneau will offer a mix of five 3-bedroom townhomes and 39 x 1-bedroom, 92 x 2-bedroom, and 11 x 3-bedroom condominiums. Contact me today to discuss availability and plans suited to your needs.

Amenities at Juneau
Residents will enjoy use of a gym, yoga studio, games room, and rooftop deck.

Parking and Storage
Underground parking will provide 201 vehicle spaces, including 21 electric vehicle charging stations.

Maintenance Fees at Juneau
TBA.

Developer Team for Juneau
Amacon is driven by passion to design with architectural innovation; a commitment to constructing uncompromising standards of quality and superior craftsmanship; and offering responsive customer care and proven satisfaction. These are the building blocks that define Amacon’s signature developments and new communities.

IBI Group Architects is a multi-disciplinary consulting firm that was founded in Vancouver and Toronto in 1974. By integrating their four core disciplines (urban land, facilities, transportation and systems), they develop holistic strategies that shape the urban environment for a more sustainable future.

Expected Completion for Juneau
Sales are expected to begin this fall. Completion is estimated to be in 2019.

Are you interested in learning more about other condos in Brentwood, Highgate, Lougheed, or Metrotown?

Check out these great Burnaby properties!

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