Fundamentals of Great Playing–Dr. Steven Harlos

Question: What are the characteristics of great playing?

1. basic approach to instrument

• beautiful tone
• variety of tone colors
• evenness
• clarity of articulation
• beautiful phrasing
• technical mastery
• piano: masterful use of pedal

2. musical concept

• vital and precise rhythm
• effective choice of tempos
• natural rubato
• harmonic awareness
• sense of structure
• stylistic awareness (performance practice)
• musical taste
• musical ideas (personality)
• artistic vision
• communication
• stage presence
• macrocosmic and microcosmic vision

3. performance

• concentration
• ease of execution (juggler’s art)
• freedom of expression
• spontaneity
• projection of ideas
• stage presence
• true to nature of the composition
• faithful to the score in all details
• awareness of key moments
• communication

4. ensemble playing

• thinking and playing as one
• inspiring one another (not a blotting paper)
• intimate knowledge of the other’s part
• easy to work with
• memory of points covered in rehearsal
• absolute tempo recall
• supportive without taking over
• quick reflexes (if things go differently )