BEFORE You Play
Walk in one of these tempos, according to the character of the piece you will play: Moderato
(medium), Andante (normal “walking” tempo), Allegretto (a little fast)
Look out (briefly) at the audience with a pleasant smile and make your way to the piano.
Make a half turn with your back to the stage and slide the feet into position.
Smile, bow slightly, and sit down at the piano.
Take time to settle in, adjust the bench height and distance from the instrument.
Take a deep breath and create a magic bubble around you—this is your performance zone.
WHILE You Play
Begin with a moment of silence. A “GP” (Grand Pause) creates drama.
Forget that you are a pianist and remember that you are a creator of sound.
Let every note speak with beauty, energy and direction.
Sing. Dance. Make Music.
Keep your head. Keep your focus. Keep going.
AFTER You Play
All compositions end the same way—at the double barline!
“GP” for two seconds, then release hands to lap.
Rise from the bench, step forward and place left hand on the piano for support.
Feet should be close together at the heels, a few inches apart at the toes.
Bow deeply from the waist, head to knee level (without bending knees), arms hanging freely at
sides.
On the way down, look at the floor and say silently, “Chattanooga Choo-Choo” (or something
similarly silly) to your feet.
On the way up, you should be grinning, or at least pleasant to view.
Walk in one of these tempos, according to the character of the piece you will play: Moderato
(medium), Andante (normal “walking” tempo), Allegretto (a little fast)
Look out (briefly) at the audience with a pleasant smile and make your way to the piano.
Make a half turn with your back to the stage and slide the feet into position.
Smile, bow slightly, and sit down at the piano.
Take time to settle in, adjust the bench height and distance from the instrument.
Take a deep breath and create a magic bubble around you—this is your performance zone.
WHILE You Play
Begin with a moment of silence. A “GP” (Grand Pause) creates drama.
Forget that you are a pianist and remember that you are a creator of sound.
Let every note speak with beauty, energy and direction.
Sing. Dance. Make Music.
Keep your head. Keep your focus. Keep going.
AFTER You Play
All compositions end the same way—at the double barline!
“GP” for two seconds, then release hands to lap.
Rise from the bench, step forward and place left hand on the piano for support.
Feet should be close together at the heels, a few inches apart at the toes.
Bow deeply from the waist, head to knee level (without bending knees), arms hanging freely at
sides.
On the way down, look at the floor and say silently, “Chattanooga Choo-Choo” (or something
similarly silly) to your feet.
On the way up, you should be grinning, or at least pleasant to view.
Helpful Hints for Recital Day
Preparing for the BIG DAY