Perfectionism is surely something we all aim for…
We imagine playing that Rachmaninov prelude, or Schubert dance, the Chopin G minor Ballade, or a Bach fugue “perfectly” from start to finish. Every note flowing as though there was no question of it being anything but perfection.
But Perfectionism can, and does, impede our essential musical response. One obvious example is a fear of playing wrong notes; caution takes over instead! Why don’t we trust our musical gut reactions? They are of great importance if we are to play with any conviction. Come and bring your ideas, believe in them, why shouldn’t you, they too can make sound sense!
One obvious example is a fear of playing wrong notes
Stepping away from the need to reach perfection allows us to see the bigger picture, which can often be lost when focusing on small sections. Playing music in its entirety will give a greater sense satisfaction from our playing. We forget the frustrations of “wrong notes” and begin to enjoy the music more.
This course is not about ignoring wrong notes, it is about not allowing them to impede further (more important) work on the rest of the piece.
Following her studies at the Royal Academy of Music, Ruth Harte performed widely in Britain, including the Wigmore Hall and South Bank,in Canada, Europe, The Far East, Australia and New Zealand. Her tours have included both solo and chamber music recitals as well as masterclasses and broadcasts. She was elected Warden of the Private Teachers Section of the Incorporated Society of Musicians in 1992-3 and her own teaching practice is central to her musical life. She has had long experience as an examiner and adjudicator, is a Fellow and former professor of the Academy and was awarded the MBE in the New Year Honours in 2007 for services to music.
The Dangers of Perfectionism Course Details
Friday 26 – Sunday 28 September 2014
Course No. 3110
Level: All
Fee: £190
B&B available from £30 per night
Click here to book