Cosmo Buono, Special Contributing Writer

The Chopin Prelude in A Major Amplified

The Chopin Prelude in A Major Amplified

While the Chopin Prelude in A Major only lasts 16 measures and takes about one minute to play, it is a wonderful study in imagination of dynamics, color, and rubato. I explore this work from multiple perspectives here, as part of GRAND PIANO PASSION™’s well-regarded Classical Piano Music Amplified™ series.

Beethoven’s Moonlight Sonata, First Movement, Amplified

Beethoven’s Moonlight Sonata, First Movement, Amplified

The first movement of Beethoven’s “Moonlight” Sonata is always a source of great delight and fascination. As a Steinway artist and a teacher, I have played and taught this piece—more formerly known as the first movement of Beethoven’s Sonata No. 14 in C-sharp Minor—so many times.

The Chopin Prelude in E Minor Amplified

The Chopin Prelude in E Minor Amplified

With its simple melody, haunting harmonies, and space for liberal use of tempo rubato, the Prelude in E Minor is one of Chopin’s most beautiful compositions—one that gives the student a wonderful work to perform, while also teaching the pianist a great deal about finesse and interpretation.