Working through a new book...

Currently, I am working through a new Book now: Masterwork Classics Level 7, Compiled & edited by Jane Magrath, together with Keys to Stylistic Mastery Book 3, which I barely touched it since it was bought coz I had been mostly playing the exam pieces only.

Today was the last lesson before Nancy goes for her delivery. So, I guess the next lesson would be some time in Oct or Nov, and then a break in Dec coz she will be going over to her mum's place in Malaysia and re-starting in Jan 13.

This means I have about 5 weeks to work on a few pieces before I see her again. Hope I can be discipline enough to practice the pieces!

Officially Grade 6 now...

I didn't do well for the practical exams coz I was very very nervous. My mind just went blank throughout the exams, though I still manage to play the pieces and scales, but I was unable to relax and play normally. I think this is due to the lack of performing experience. And this would mean that I need to find more opportunity to play and perform for others, so that I am used to it and not feel so excessively nervous.

Nevertheless, I have officially move into Grade 6 now and yes, Nancy will be getting new books for me. She showed me some of the books which she will be getting for me and they are mostly one book of certain pieces by a composer. And the scores look very scary. The focus will really be on learning the techniques and the style of the period and maybe the style of the composer as well?

In any case, I think I will also need to spend more time practising the piano as the pieces are more technically demanding. And I am also thinking whether I should go for the practical exams for Grade 6 or skip and take Grade 7 or Grade 8 directly, taking about 2 to 3 years to get there? Any advise?

The reason why I am not so keen taking exams because I don't really enjoy the process of preparing the 3 exam pieces just for the exams where I play the same piece over and over again. Was quite bored towards the end. I rather spend more time playing more repertoires and spend more time to improve the various aspects of my techniques.

Anyway, it is time to go off. My girl needs her nap and hugs now. Will write again next time.