Music Lesson: Analyzing a Classic Song

Hello there, everyone!

Introduction

Today, we've got a fantastic song for you. This is one of the most famous songs of all time, composed and written by the amazing Elton John and Bernie Taupin.

Ellie Goulding did a wonderful take on this a few years ago, and it's definitely a remarkable piano version. She's added her own style and vibe to this song, making it so different from the Elton John version.

It's literally like chalk and cheese! Ellie really brought something unique to this piece, straying far from the well-known version that's been around since 1970. Her fresh take contributes greatly to pop music, and I think you're going to have a lot of fun learning this song.

Progressing Through Grades

As we work on this piece, we're at Grade 4 where:

• Our fingers are getting stronger.
• Our technique is improving.

If you've progressed through the grades, you've likely seen some success and are feeling more confident in your playing. This song presents unique challenges, so let's take a closer look.

Key Elements of the Song

1. Rhythmic Interest:

   • The first thing to note is the interesting rhythmic interplay between the left hand and the right hand.
   • For once, you have the melody throughout the piece. Rather than just accompanying, the right hand carries the melody!

2. Listen and Learn:

   • I encourage you to listen to the song, especially how Ellie Goulding inflects the words.
   • Note her unique way of singing, the syllables, the bounces, the ebbs and flows of the melody.

3. Experiment:

   • Feel free to busk through the song.
   • Play through it and see how it feels under your fingers.
   • Don't hesitate to take a piece for a test drive; you might find it doesn't feel right at first, but as you improve, it may click later on.

Technical Aspects

Key Signature

• We're in G minor and B flat major.
• Use the pedal throughout to maintain a delicate, warm sound typical of a romantic love song.

Dynamics

• Mark a little P for piano to keep the overall sound soft.
• Bring out the right-hand melody while keeping the left-hand accompaniment light and soft.

Finger Markings

• Make a note of finger markings as you practice.
• Expect to use your fourth and fifth fingers often, so prepare for slightly more advanced techniques.

Rhythmic Patterns

• Be aware of two rhythmic patterns:
  • Semiquaver: da-da-da
  • Triplet: 1, 2, 3 (against 1, 2, 3)

Addressing Challenges

• There's a particularly tricky part in bar eight. Focus on moving your fingers effectively to navigate the chord changes.

Additional Bars of Interest

• In bar 27, pay attention to the 5/4 timing.
• Practicing the shifts between 2/4, 3/4, and 4/4 will help with understanding the overall rhythm of the piece.

The Chorus and Technical Hurdles

• In bar 15, you'll need to hold the chord while keeping the melody clear using weaker fingers. Practice this section diligently.

Summary and Conclusion

• As you work through this song, take your time.
• Focus on finger markings, maintain delicacy, and include dynamics.
• Have fun with the beautiful melody.

This piece provides a fantastic opportunity to showcase your piano skills. Remember, you have the melody throughout, which isn't always the case with many pieces.

I wish you all the best with this song! Enjoy!