As we move into November, we celebrate the birth of a famous ragtime composer, remember an important premiere, and reflect on Bach’s criminal record!
November 6: Bach Goes to Jail
This month in 1717, Johann Sebastian Bach went to jail! The beloved composer and pianist spent about four weeks in a “justice room” at the Weimar court after demanding that he be released from his position as concertmaster for the Duke of Weimar in order to pursue a position in service of Prince Leopold in Cothen.
A student’s first experience with Bach’s music can be a “watershed” moment. Expert teacher Martha Appleby gives advice on which pieces by Bach to introduce first, as well as practice tips and guidance for the first Bach experience. Read more here!
November 20: The Premiere of Fidelio
This month in 1820, Beethoven’s first and only opera, Fidelio, premiered in Vienna. The opera premiered under the title Leonore, with original libretto by Josephy Sonnleithner, and was received somewhat poorly at first. After multiple revisions by two additional librettists, the opera successfully premiered again under the title Fidelio eight years later. For more on Classical repertoire, style, and technique, check out the Microcourse Classical Sonatinas and Sonatas at the Piano.
November 24: The Birth of Scott Joplin
The “King of Ragtime” and Pulitzer Prize-winner was born November 24,1868 in Texarkana, Texas. Joplin is famous for composing rags such as Maple Leaf Rag, Gladiolus Rag, and The Entertainer. Another engaging piece by Joplin, perfect for advancing students, is The Easy Winners. Click here to watch a video from the Inspiring Artistry series, in which Kate Acone performs The Easy Winners and shares specific teaching tips.
OTHER RESOURCES YOU MIGHT ENJOY:
- MAGAZINE ARTICLE: What Is the First Bach Piece You Teach? What Does the Student Need to Know Before Beginning to Learn It? by Martha Appleby, Annette Conklin, and Janet S. Swanzy
- MAGAZINE ARTICLE: Repertoire: Bach’s Two-Part Inventions by Marian McCaa Thomas
- MICROCOURSE: Classical Sonatinas and Sonatas at the Piano
- REPERTOIRE VIDEO SERIES: Joplin: The Easy Winners with Kate Acone
- REPERTOIRE VIDEO SERIES: J.S. Bach: Invention No. 2 in C Minor by Megan Hall
- Use our search feature to discover more!
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