Pianists occasionally fall into counterproductive habits that cause hand, neck, shoulder or back pain. These physical habits also keep pianists from producing a broad pallet of sounds and from moving freely around the keyboard. Too often, it is our physical habits that hold us back musically.
In a 5-day intensive, three students will share a daily two-and-one-half hour lesson, with Lydia Frumkin, Professor Emeritus of Oberlin Conservatory. Students may choose to enroll in one of three daily lesson sessions. (Sessions are not interchangeable.)
During her 38-year career as Professor of Piano at Oberlin Conservatory, Lydia Frumkin attracted students from throughout the world who wished to learn not only her musical approach but the physical method (which she refined) passed down to her through direct lineage from the legendary Anna A. Schmidt-Schklovskaya, a pupil of Felix Blumenfeld (1863 - 1931) in whose master class was renowned pianist Vladimir Horowitz.
This method deals with correcting physical problems that arise from inefficient movements at the piano, that may lead to lack of control, discomfort and even physical pain during playing. In extreme, such habits may cause more severe long-term problems. During this hands-on intensive, students will learn ways to develop a "singing string sound" and a more natural approach at the keyboard that will prevent repetitive strain injuries and help to master pianistic skills that free the body, so the pianist is free to explore and express the music.
Please note: pianists will not be coached on personal repertoire during these sessions.
