Pedagogical tools for preparing and performing open scores.

One of the most difficult tasks undertaken by pianists is playing open scores. The prerequisites for successfully rendering a score include a reliable grasp of keyboard geography, command of tonality and harmonic structures, and a solid piano technique. Perhaps, most importantly, the pianist needs to be able to maintain a consistent pulse regardless of the demands of finding notes. These required elements typically preclude teaching score reading in the early stages of piano instruction.

There is no need to wait until the college years to expose pianists to open scores. Many of our mainstream, traditional piano students will find opportunities to accompany ...