Piano: the Beethoven sonatas project

About this course

Participants study selected Beethoven sonatas, choosing from the available repertoire. Individual coaching in a workshop setting addresses Classical keyboard style, pianistic technique, tone production, pedalling, rhythm and pulse coordination. Classes also involve attentive listening, practical illustration and peer feedback. Musical interpretation includes decisions about articulation and ornaments, as well as shaping balanced textures across multiple voices. Regular practice between classes is an important part of the course.

What you'll learn

• Interpret Beethoven’s keyboard music with greater stylistic awareness.
• Apply advanced piano technique to the selected sonata repertoire.
• Develop stylistically appropriate tone quality and controlled pedalling.
• Make independent decisions about articulation, ornaments and pedalling.
• Shape layered textures with balanced multiple voices.

Is this course right for you?

The course is intended for advanced pianists with a playing standard of Grade 8 or above. Participants receive individual coaching but also take part in a workshop environment through listening, practical illustration, peer feedback and class discussion. The course requires regular practice between sessions and the ability to follow written and spoken instructions in English.

• Designed for pianists working at Grade 8 level or above.
• Includes individual coaching alongside group workshop participation.
• Requires engagement with peer feedback and class discussion.
• Regular practice between classes is expected.

Before you go

• Students should have access to a piano, preferably an acoustic piano, for practice between classes.
• Students need suitable, good-quality editions of their chosen scores. The recommended edition is published by Henle Verlag.