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Foundations of Improvisation – Space and Silence

by Doug Hanvey | January 19, 2019 | Teaching Piano

It’s been awhile since I’ve written about the essential principles of improvisation. In previous posts I’ve covered the principles of staying present, not-knowing and unity and contrast. Another …Share...

Games for Faber Piano Adventures Level 1

by Doug Hanvey | November 5, 2016 | Teaching Piano

Try these games for Faber Piano Adventures Level 1 to test young students’ comprehension and develop their skills. Unit 1: Melodic Shapes Teacher draws a shape. Student plays a melody …Share...

Why Should Piano Students Learn to Improvise?

by Doug Hanvey | July 16, 2016 | Teaching Piano

In this post I’d like to touch upon several important reasons for piano students to learn to improvise as part of a standard curriculum. Improvising was once a prerequisite for …Share...

Favorite Blues Licks (Part 2)

by Doug Hanvey | June 18, 2016 | Learning, Practicing & Playing Piano

It’s time for a few more of my favorite blues licks. Remember that a blues lick is a standard phrase or pattern that is memorable and often includes blues ornaments …Share...

Favorite Blues Licks (Part 1)

by Doug Hanvey | February 6, 2016 | Learning, Practicing & Playing Piano

A blues lick is a stock phrase or pattern, usually catchy and often using conventional blues ornamentation such as tremolos, that is used to heighten interest, increase tension, or communicate …Share...
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