Our first masterclass of 2024 was a great success. It was led by concert pianist and chamber musician William Howard, who proved he was not just a superb pianist but also an inspiring, engaging, and insightful teacher. As one participant put it afterwards:
“I can honestly say that I learnt something in every session and have an extensive list of things to reflect upon, try and place in my practice and generally take on board.”
The workshop was held on Tuesday 11 June at the home of Simon and Jill Scott, where we benefited from being able to play their superb Bösendorfer 225 grand piano.
As usual at Club meetings, participants offered a varied programme, with works by composers ranging from Bach to Messiaen:
Simon – Berg: Piano Sonata Op.1
Nancy – Haydn: Sonata No.60 in C major Hob: XVI: 50; Chopin: Mazurka No. 36 in A minor Op.59 No.1
Fran – Chopin: Nouvelle Étude No 2 in A flat KK 2 b/3 No 2
Steven – Bach: Toccata in E minor BWV 914
Mark – Messiaen: Vingt regards sur l’Enfant-Jésus XI: La première communion de la Vierge
Michelle – Bach: Sarabande from the E minor Partita
Anne – Clara Schumann: Pièces Fugitives Op.15 No.1
Matthew – Chopin: Prelude in A flat, Op.28 No.17; Prelude in F sharp Op.28 No.13
About William Howard
William Howard (see https://www.williamhoward.co.uk/biography) has a wide range of musical interests and repertoire, and in particular is passionate about 19th century piano repertoire, especially Schubert, Chopin, Schumann and Fauré. He also has a strong interest in Czech piano music and has been particularly acclaimed for his performance of Janáček. He has recorded over 40 CDs as a soloist or chamber musician.
Future events
Alton Chan returns to Bristol this summer, with a masterclass for the Club at Henleaze Reform Church on 26 August; private lessons in Keynsham (at Leonora’s house) on 27 August; and a course at Jackdaws 23–25 August – see https://bristolpianoclub.org/2024/05/24/a-visit-from-dr-alton-chung-ming-chan/
Pianist and teacher Helen Reid (https://helenreidpiano.com/) will be leading a masterclass for us on 10 November at Cheryl & Brian’s in Failand – contact Mark for further information at mark@markwareconsulting.com
Willilam Howard will be running a course “Creative Practising – How to Keep Your Piano Practice Fresh” on 25–27 October at Jackdaws – see https://www.jackdaws.org.uk/events/3645/
Bristol Piano Club 