Understanding Classical Idioms through Furules

Furules is a great piece for understanding classical idiom, specifically in the classical era. We are focusing on 18th-century music, which encompasses composers such as:

• Mozart
• Haydn
• Beethoven
• Schubert

The Importance of Beethoven

Beethoven is particularly important because he was present during the development of the piano.

• His early sonatas used only a limited range of the keyboard.
• As the piano evolved, he began using the instrument in a much more emphatic and developed fashion.

Characteristics of 18th Century Classical Music

In terms of classical features, we look at several key elements:

• Melody and Accompaniment:

  • There is often a beautiful melody in the right hand, though it may sometimes appear in the left hand.
  • An accompaniment supports this beautiful line.

• Dynamics:

  • The dynamics are contrastive, with clear distinctions between soft (pp or piano) and loud (forte) passages.
  • The dynamics often feel very black and white, rather than involving excessive swells.

• Rhythmic Precision:

  • Rhythmic accuracy is vital.

• Unified Tempo:

  • This is one of the most important aspects.
  • It's essential to negotiate a suitable tempo that encompasses the difficult sections, particularly the second page and the triplets at the bottom of the third page.

Navigating Tempo

If we accelerate too quickly at the beginning, we may struggle with bar 33.

• Remember, 4 demisemiquavers equal 1 quaver.
• In a 3/8 meter (3 quavers per bar), we want to match up our counts.

Suggested Practice Approach

I suggest starting at:

• Bar 33:
  • Think about how fast and relaxed you can play those demisemiquavers.
  • Consider counting: "1, 2, 3."

Alternatively, you could begin at:

• Bar 79:
  • Count: "1, 2, 3."

Once you feel comfortable, you may decide to increase the tempo slightly or play a bit slower, it's up to you!