Kjos Music Knihy

The Virtuoso Pianist in 60 Exercises by C. L. Hanon (1819-1900) is probably the most popular piano technique book in history. First Hanon Exercises is an abridged version of the first 20 of Hanon’s 60 exercises, making them useful for late elementary and early intermediate piano students. Eighth notes are used instead of sixteenth notes; each exercise has only 16 measures instead of 32; and the hands are placed two octaves apart for greater comfort. Scales, primary chord progressions, and tonic chord arpeggios are included in all twenty-four keys. Chromatic scales also add to the usefulness of this book. These time-tested exercises can greatly help in developing finger dexterity, coordination, and evenness of touch.

This second set (Nos. 21 to 38) from the 60 piano studies by C. L. Hanon are, along with Part 1, an important part The Virtuoso Pianist. Hanon’s “Preparatory exercises to acquire speed, precision, agility, and strength in the fingers... (and) flexibility of the wrists.” The etudes enable students to focus on playing patterns with a relaxed hand while supporting the fingers with the hands and arms. They also make a wide range of finger patterns easy for pianists to recognize and execute when learning and accomplishing repertoire. Also included with Part 2 are the twelve Major and minor scales, chromatic scales, diminished and dominant 7th chord arpeggios, and two of the most significant exercises from Hanon’s studies, Part 3 – scales in thirds, and chromatic scales in thirds.

The selections included in this collection of delightful solos are early works from among Eugénie Rocherolle’s many compositions for piano. Her abilities as a composer are obvious even early in her journey as one of America’s finest composers. Diverse styles are represented including gospel, an Irish jig, ballads, a charming waltz, a lullaby and a fun piece rich with 7th chords.