Approach to playing a piece .. choosing a STYLE
Posted: 20 Nov 2018 12:31
When playing a piece, choosing a suitable STYLE is what it's all about. On our keyboards there is usually a 'bespoke' Style that you can use for a particular song. But even if the Style chosen is not the 'correct' one it is usually possible to 'adjust' the melody so that it 'fits' the rhythm in the Style. This goes for the 'tempo' of the piece too. By experimenting with different Styles for a song you can create something that has your own 'stamp' on it.
Here is an example of what I am on about. Take the song Oh My Darling, Clementine. I'm sure we all know this one. It is a Waltz. Here is the 'basic' song played 'as a Waltz'. Not one of my favourite songs!
.. and here is another version which has been brilliantly arranged by The Sweptaways. Still a Waltz, but they have put their own stamp on it by creating their own counter melodies and harmonies.
But now ...
What has Jon D done with this one? He's gone for a Quickstep Style and so has had to 'adjust' the melody to fit the rhythm.
Click this LINK. Do a right-click to open it up in a New Tab
Oh My Darling, Clementine played by Jon D
Here is the comment I had put up about it:
Hugh
Here is an example of what I am on about. Take the song Oh My Darling, Clementine. I'm sure we all know this one. It is a Waltz. Here is the 'basic' song played 'as a Waltz'. Not one of my favourite songs!
.. and here is another version which has been brilliantly arranged by The Sweptaways. Still a Waltz, but they have put their own stamp on it by creating their own counter melodies and harmonies.
But now ...
What has Jon D done with this one? He's gone for a Quickstep Style and so has had to 'adjust' the melody to fit the rhythm.
Click this LINK. Do a right-click to open it up in a New Tab
Oh My Darling, Clementine played by Jon D
Here is the comment I had put up about it:
This piece is written is a Waltz, which can be very slow and dull, and has never been a favourite of mine. But you have transformed it into a very 'lively' Quickstep. It's interesting to hear how you have 'adapted' the tune to fit the new beat. You are very talented to be able to do this!
Hugh