Michael Brazile, Contributing Writer

Bach Invention in B-flat Major Played by Michael Brazile

Bach Invention in B-flat Major Played by Michael Brazile

On the surface, sameness is the defining feature of the Bach Invention No. 14 in B-flat Major. The entire piece is built from the opening motif of a little turn executed on the note B-flat, all in 32nd notes. Bach takes this rhythmic gesture and uses it in every way possible, inverting it, tossing it back and forth between the right and left hands, and playing it against itself with both hands.

Bach French Suite No. 4 Amplified

Bach French Suite No. 4 Amplified

The Bach French Suite No. 4’s Allemande is relatively short, making its contrapuntal demands on the player manageable; get tips on how to play the piece.

Satie Gnossienne No. 3 Amplified

Satie Gnossienne No. 3 Amplified

Satie’s Gnossienne No. 3 is charming yet hypnotic, requiring from the pianist a flexible sense of rhythm and a probing creative streak to interpret Satie’s colorful, written indications. In this article, part of GRAND PIANO PASSION™’s well-regarded Classical Piano Music Amplified™ series, I look at the piece from multiple perspectives.

Satie’s Gymnopédie No. 3 Amplified

Satie’s Gymnopédie No. 3 Amplified

Erik Satie’s Gymnopédie No. 3 has enjoyed great popularity since Satie first published it in 1888. The music’s melancholy lyricism, warm harmonies and relative technical ease account for its popularity.