Piano Soundscapes: A Series on Pedaling with Derek Chiu

In the first session of this series, we'll explore the art of pedaling to add vibrant colors to your interpretations of Baroque and Classical piano compositions. Discover historical insights, advanced pedaling techniques, and how to bring out the distinct qualities of works by renowned composers, such as Bach, Beethoven, Haydn, Mozart, and Scarlatti.

in the second session, we delve into the passionate and expressive world of Romantic piano music. Learn how to use the piano's pedals to paint lush and emotional soundscapes in the works of composers like Chopin, Schumann, and Liszt. Discover the nuances of half-pedaling, una corda, and advanced pedal techniques that breathe life into your performances of Romantic repertoire.

This session invites you to explore the enchanting soundscapes of Impressionism. Dive into the dreamy, atmospheric world of Debussy and Ravel, and discover the unique pedal techniques that help you craft evocative and otherworldly soundscapes. Explore the use of tone color, harmonies, and pedaling to bring vivid imagery and emotions to life in your interpretations.

Post-Romantic music, late 19th-early 20th century, evokes emotional depth and experimentation. Composers like Rachmaninoff and Scriabin embraced lush textures. Piano pedals played a pivotal role in developing the expressive output and story telling of this repertoire. The final class in this series will explore treatment of the pedal with the works of Rachmaninioff, Scriabin, Bartok, and Albeniz.