Lesson time: (6min 39sec)
This lesson is part of the course Rockschool Beginner Piano Lessons: Grade 1
Watch a preview of the full course below.
Lesson transcript:
Hi, everyone! How's it going? Today, we are looking at Grade One and we've got The Fab Stomp right here in front of me. It's a really catchy song with a kind of 60s vibe.
If you read the information sheet, you'll see mentioned bands such as:
These are all iconic bands from the 60s, and this piece recreates that innocent, poppy joy that was a signature of 60s rock and roll. The song definitely has that vibe!
Even the chords we're using reflect this:
This is a classic chord progression that was frequently used in the 60s and 70s.
Talking about the piece:
Interestingly enough, even with that key signature, we don't actually play any C sharps until the B section, where we transition into the dominant key.
In the first bar, you'll see all the Cs are given a natural sign to make them C natural. This creates something like this (play here).
Rhythmic Idiosyncrasies:
These rhythms create an interesting effect. Try to bring out the melody strongly! Imagine you're a guitarist rather than a keyboardist, as back then, they didn't have much piano in those songs.
You are in the band right now! Your role is to play the melody and sync along with the track. So, put your headphones on, play through, and immerse yourself in the music. Even at Grade One, you're given a chance to show keen interest in the musical shape of the song.
At the C section, we shift to the dark key of B minor, moving from off-beat to straight crotchets. Be careful not to rush this; hold the long sustained chords:
Make sure to maintain that rhythm as you transition:
This chord can be tricky:
For chord shapes, consider the following:
Notice that C naturals return after the A Major section. Pay attention, because we have a dominant seventh chord here, adding that G natural, which brings us back to the home key of D major.
As we delve deeper into the piece, you'll notice:
For example, in bar one, you'll find this D major chord:
This then transitions smoothly to the second chord and the G major in root position.
Get familiar with those shapes and try for full voicing of the chords:
I recommend a bit of shoulder movement while playing chords to avoid stiffness and to engage with the music.
Try practicing the left hand alone while playing along with the track. Your goal is to achieve vibrant and strong voicings:
That's repeated all the way through the piece. As we move up to the B section in A major, remember to practice those triads and suspended chords.
I hope you enjoy playing this piece! Immerse yourself in the music and experience the vibe it's creating. Best of luck with your learning on this piece!
Many thanks!
