Posted by Music Journal 2025 Updates
Music Journal 2025 Updates
Music Journal 2025 Updates
Composergarynoland – Composition Lessons, Music, Piano
piano
Composergarynoland – Composition Lessons, Music, Piano
Playing the PIano at the End of Time
Cosmos Movies TV Programs 2024 List
A quick update.
I finally completed a life long quest to play all the Mozart Piano Sonatas! Now I am on to another piano playing bucket list playing all the Beethoven piano sonatas. That will probably take until next year as I will be traveling for a few months and may not have access to a piano but I will take my Beethoven with me just in case and I want to buy some sheet music – more Jazz Standards. and maybe Tower of Power song book and Chopin piano pieces, and perhaps Schoenberg and 20th century composers.
Reigniting My Passion for Piano
Over the last year, I’ve reignited my passion for playing the piano. Music has always been a significant part of my life, and returning to it daily has been incredibly rewarding. Here’s a glimpse into my musical journey, goals for the year, and strategies to achieve them.
My Musical Journey:
I took piano lessons from first grade until I graduated from college. While in high school, I wrote a string quartet, piano sonata, flute sonata, and the first movement of a symphony. The string quartet and flute sonatas were performed at a concert honoring Berkeley gifted young people. I majored in music composition at Cal State Hayward and Oberlin but changed my major to political science and psychology at the University of the Pacific after some academic struggles. I played the piano daily from 1972 to 1984, and from 1988 to 2016, when I retired. From 2000 to 2003, I resumed writing music and composed five or six pieces. In 2021, I resumed playing the piano. This past year, I played daily until June when I took a six-month break as I did not have access to a piano. I will continue playing daily until June and, while in the States, will rent a piano to ensure I can keep practicing. Later in the year, I will buy a MIDI cable, and Sibelius music composition software and resume writing music posting one piece per month.
Goals for 2025:
- Daily Practice: Dedicate one hour per day to piano practice.
- Mastering Sonatas: Work my way through Mozart and Beethoven Sonatas. Purchase new music, including Funk classics, Jazz, and Rock standards.
- Music Education: Take music theory and composition courses.
- Equipment Upgrade: Buy a MIDI cable and download Sibelius to learn music writing.
- Composition: Rewrite music I composed in high school and aim to write one piece per month to post on my blog.
- Piano Access: Buy or rent a piano while in the States.
Strategy:
- Self-Teaching: Utilize YouTube tutorials to learn the fundamentals of music writing and take online music theory courses.
- Piece Analysis: Review each piece before playing, noting high and low notes, key signatures, and changes. Create cheat sheets for ornamentations such as turns and mordents.
- Separate Hand Practice: For Bach pieces, practice each hand separately before playing together.
- Listening and Learning: Listen to the music on YouTube before attempting to play.
Rediscovering Mozart and Beethoven:
My journey through the piano books will culminate in conquering Mozart and Beethoven’s Sonatas. I recently played my first Mozart Sonata and, to my surprise, did not do too badly. I plan to revisit it next year after completing my initial piano books. I am finally feeling comfortable playing Mozart. Still a challenge but one I can deal with.
Ode to My Pianos:
Ever since I was a young lad, I dreamt of being a professional piano player. Though that dream may never come true, my love for the instrument remains unwavering. At 70, I now play my Roland 88 piano almost every day, delighting in the creative ways I interpret the classics.
Learning to Play the Piano Leads to a Career in Music:
Buying a new piano and music software allowed me to practice nightly. Angela’s weekly piano lessons helped me master pieces, and I even joined a jazz band, the Diplomatic Jazz Ensemble. We released an album that gained unexpected popularity, leading me to retire from the Foreign Service and pursue a career as a studio musician and composer in San Francisco.
How to Re-Learn to Play the Piano:
Returning to piano after a hiatus involves picking a series of beginner to intermediate books, analyzing each piece, and practicing with a structured approach. Concentrating on accuracy and rhythm, I aim to play three to five pieces daily, gradually increasing my speed.
Piece List:
Here’s what I’ve played recently:
- Carl Philipp Emanuel Bach – Allegro
- Joseph Haydn – Andantino
- Joseph Haydn – Scherzo in F
- Mozart – Rondo in C
- Beethoven – Bagatelle in C
- Beethoven – Ecossaise in G
- Joseph Haydn – Seven German Dances 1-7 and Coda
- Carl Maria von Weber – Ecossaise in G major
- Jacob Schmitt – Sonatina in C
- Joseph Nepomuk Hummel – Bagatelle
Alzheimer’s Prevention: I believe that playing music, learning languages, and engaging in mental games are excellent ways to ward off dementia and Alzheimer’s. Given my increased risk, I’ve committed to daily piano practice, studying Korean, and engaging in creative writing and blogging as part of my prevention strategy.
Encouragement to Aspiring Musicians: To those nearing retirement and considering resuming an instrument, I encourage you to go for it. The rewards are immeasurable.
For more details, visit my webpage: The World According to Cosmos – On Playing Mozart Sonatas.
Embrace the joy of music and make it a part of your daily life!
Piano Playing 3-7-5
piano
playing my keyboards daily
I am getting better
Ode to My Pianos
Ever since I was a young lad
I wanted to play the piano
Had delusions I could be
A professional piano player.
But alas that was not my fate
I had four pianos in my life
Most recently I bought a Rolland 88 piano
And play it almost every day.
And now at age 70
I am finally getting fairly good
But I know that my dream
Of being a professional piano player.
Will never come true
But that is okay.
As I stumble my way through my music
Mutilating Bach, Beethoven, Blues Standards,
Mozart and so many others
In creative ways never heard before.
I think that their spirits
Will understand
And be amused and laughing
And not be too hurt
By my attempts.
An object
Write a poem about any object which you love the most let it be perfume,books,etc.
The list
Korean Light Classical Set
- Chopin Piece
- Beethoven Disco For Eliza
- Apartment
- Verglis Mein Nicht
- Malguenia
- Disco City
- Io Ti Daro Di Piu
- Dark Eye Boogie Woman
- El Bimbo
- Rumba Rhapsody
- Korean Song Book
- Ganadiri
- Nununhannuri
- Moknochuchang
- Babo
- Sarang
- Ayaohchmari
- Chackunlabi
- Changelog
- Hangku
- Kudaeyae
- Laegaedo Saranoi
- Miwoimiwoimiwoi
- Baramireoo
- Sarangsarangnuka Milhaeni
- Bayayae
- Yet Siinuilorae
- Chrumomoichukkae
- Ku Saram
- Biramchoram Nakyomchorum
- Saransuron Kudae
- Sarangiyo
100 Greatest Hits
- Ain’t No Mountain High Enough Marvin Gaye
- All Blues Nailed It, Miles Davis,
- All Day All The Night The Kinks
- All My Loving The Beatles
- Anarchy In The UK -Really Rocked Out With This One Sex Pistols
- And She Was Talking Heads
- Back On The Chain Gang Pretenders
- Bad Moon Rising Creedence Clearwater Revival Nailed It
- Badge Cream
- Being A Gong Get It On T Rex
- Beth Kiss
- Blueberry Hill Fats Domino Nailed It
- Bo Diddley Nailed It
- The Book Of Love Peter Gabriel
- Both Sides Now Joni Mitchel
- California Sun Ramones
- Can’t Help Falling In Love Elvis Presely
- Candle In The Wind Elton John
- Chain Gang Nailed It Nirvana
- Desperado Eagles
- Every Little Thing She Does Is Magic The Police
- Everyday I Write The Book Elvis Costello
- Everyday People Sly And The Family Stone
- Feeling Alright Traffic
- Fields Of Gold Sting
- 50 Ways To Leave Your Lover Paul Simon
- Forever Young Rod Stewart
- Foxy Lady Jimi Hendrix
- Freddy’s Dead Curtis Mayfield
- Free Falling Tom Petty
- Georgia On My Mind Ray Charles
- Give Up The Funk Chairs The Roof Off The Sucker Parliament
- Glory Days Bruce Springsteen
- I Can’t Help Myself Sugar Pie Honey Bunch The Four Tops
- I Still Haven’t Found What I Was Looking For You 2
- I Walk The Line Johnny Cash
- I’m Hoochie Choohie Man Muddy Waters
- Imagine John Lennon Then Plastic Ono Band
- Isn’t She Lovely Stevie Wonder
- It’s In The Way You Use It Eric Clapton
- It’s Too Late Carole King
- Just My Imagination Running Away From Me The Temptations
- Kashmir Led Zeppelin
- Landslide Fleetwood Mac
- Lay Lady Lay Bob Dylan
- Like A Prayer Madonna
- Living In America James Brown Losing My Religion R.E.M.
- Love Walks In Van Halen
- Lust For Life Iggy Pop
- Man In The Mirror Michael Jackson
- Me And Bobby Mcgee Janis Joplin
- Midnight Train At Georgia Gladys Knights And The Pips
- Money Pink Floyd
- Moondance Van Morrison
- Naima John Coltrane
- You Make Me Feel Like A Natural Woman Aretha Franklin
- Never Say Goodbye The Jackson Jackson 5 Night Fever The Bg’s
- The Night They Drove Old Dixie Down The Band
- 1999 Prince
- No Particular Place To Go, Chuck Berry,
- Ol 55 Tom Waits
- Only The Lonely You Know The Way I Feel Roy Orbison
- Oya Como Va Santana
- Peggy Sue Buddy Holly
- Proud Mary Ike And Tina Turner
- Pin Ball Wizzard The Who
- Pride And Joy Stevie Ray Vaughan
- Rambling Man Allman Brothers Band
- Reeling In The Years Steely Dan
- Rock The Casbash The Clash
- Ruby Tuesday The Rolling Stones
- September Earth Wind And Fire
- Silly Love Songs Paul Mccartney
- Sitting On The Dock Of The Bay Otis Redding
- The Sound Of Silence Simon And Garfield
- Sweet Emotions Aerosmith
- Sweet Home Chicago Robert Johnson
- Sweet Jane Velvet Underground
- Teach Your Children Crosby, Stills, Nash And Young
- The Tears Of A Clown Smokey Robinson And The Miracles
- 3 Little Birds Bob Marley
- The Thrill Is Gone B.B. King
- Tired Of Being Alone Al Green
- Touch Of Grey Grateful Dead
- Turn Turn Turn To Everything There’s This Season The Byrds
- Tutti Fruity Little Richard
- We Will Rock You Queen
- Working In The Coal Mine Devo
- Wouldn’t It Be Nice The Beach Boys
- You Can’t Hurry Love Diana Ross And The Supremes
- Young Americans David Bowie
Bach Two and Three Part Inventions
- 1 In C
- 2 IN E Flat
- 3 In D
- 4 In E Flat Major
- 5 In E Flat
- 6 In E
- 7 In B Minor
- 8 In F
- 9 In A Flat
- 10 In G
- 11 In G Minor
- 12 In A
- 13 In C
- 14 In B Flat
- 15 In D
- 16 Sinfonia 1 In C
- 17 Sinfonia 2 In C Minor
- 18 Sinfonia 3 In D
- 19 Sinfonia 4 In D Minor
- 20 Sinfonia 5 In E Flat
- 21 Sinfonnia 6 In E
- 22 Sinfonia 7 In G
- 23 Sinfonia 8 In F
- 24 Sinfonia 9 In F Minor
- 25 Sinfonia 10 In G
- 26 Sinfonia In G Minor
- 27 Sinfonia 12 In A
- 28 Sinfonia 13 In C
- 29 Sinfonia 14 In B Flat
- 30 Sinfonia 15 In F
Blues Standards
- All Your Love (I Miss Loving)
- Baby Please Don’t Go
- Baby, What You Want Me To Do
- Back Door Man
- Bluebird
- Blues Before Sunrise
- Blues With A Feeling
- Boogie Chillen No. 2
- Caledonia
- Checkin’ Up On My Baby
- Confessin’ The Blues
- Crossroads
- Everyday (I Have The Blues)
- Evil (Is Going On)
- Five Long Years
- Going Down Slow
- Good Morning Little Schoolgirl
- Help Me
- Honest I Do
- How Long, How Long Blues
- I Believe I’ll Dust My Broom
- I Can’t Quit You Baby
- I’m A Man
- I’m A Steady Rollin’ Man
- I’m Gonna Move On The Outskirts Of Town
- I’m Ready
- I’m Your Hoochie Coochie Man
- It Hurts Me Too
- Key To The Highway
- Killing Floor
- Little Red Rooster
- Mean Old Frisco
- Mean Old World
- Mellow Down Easy
- Merry Christmas, Baby
- Milk Cow Blues
- My Babe
- Nobody Knows You When You’re Down And Out
- On The Road Again
- Please Send Me Someone To Love
- Ramblin’ On My Mind
- Reconsider Baby
- Rollin’ And Tumblin’
- Saint James Infirmary
- Louis Blues
- See See Rider
- Sitting On Top Of The World
- The Sky Is Crying
- Smokestack Lightning
- Spoonful
- Sweet Home Chicago
- Tain’t Nobody’s Biz-Ness If I Do
- The Thrill Is Gone
- Trouble In Mind
- Walkin’ Blues
- Wang Dang Doodle
- You Don’t Have To Go
Duke Ellington Song Book
- Alabama Home
- Azure
- Birmingham Breakdown
- Black Butterfly
- Blip Blip
- Boy Meets Horn
- Brown Skin Gal In The Colico Gown
- Caravan
- Creole Love Call
- Come Sunday
- Day Dream
- Do Nothing Until You Hear From Me
- Doing The Crazy Walk
- Don’t Get Around Much Anymore
- Echoes Of Harlem
- Everything But You
- Five O Clock Drag
- Gal From Joes
- Gypsy With Out A Song
- I Got It Bad (And That Ain’t Good)
- Let A Song Go Out Of My Heart
- I Never Felt This Way Before
- I’m Just A Lucky So And So
- Riding On The Moon And Dancing On The Stars
- So In Love With You
- In A Sentimental Mood
- It Doesn’t Mean A Thing (If It Ain’t Got That Swing)
- Jeep In Jumping
- Lady In Blue
- Lost In Meditation
- Mood Indigo
- Paris Burning
- Please Forgive Me
- Prel;Ude To A Kiss
- Ring Dem
- Rocking My Rhtyim
- Satin Doll
- Solitude
- Something To Live For
- Sosphicated Lady
- Take The A Train
Took a break from June to December as I had no piano available
Bach WTC
- prelude and fugue 1
- prelude and fugue 2
- prelude and fugue 3
- prelude and fugue 4
- prelude and fugue 5
- prelude and fugue 6
- prelude and fugue 7
- prelude and fugue 8
- prelude and fugue 9
- prelude and fugue 10
- prelude and fugue 11
- prelude and fugue 12
- prelude and fugue 13
- prelude and fugue 14
- prelude and fugue 15
- prelude and fugue 16
- prelude and fugue 17
- prelude and fugue 18
- prelude and fugue 19
- prelude and fugue 20
Eric Satie Three Gymnopies
- Eric Satie three gymnopies 1
- Eric Satie three gymnopies 2
- Eric Satie three gymnopies 3
Improvised Jake Blues
24 Sonatas
Haydn Sonatas
- Haydn
- Haydn 1
- Hyadn 2
- Haydn 3
- Haydn 4
- Haydn 5
- Haydn 6
Mozart Sonatas
- Mozart 6
- Mozart 7
- Mozart 8
- Mozart 9
- Mozart 10
When I finish the Sonata book, I will finish the WTC before turning back to Mozart and latter Beethoven. That should take me to the end of the year along with my music classes and compositions.
Background on the Sonata form from Co-Pilot
The sonata is one of the most enduring forms in classical music, evolving over centuries while maintaining its core structure and principles. Typically, a sonata is an instrumental work composed for one or two instruments, like piano, violin, or a duo (e.g., piano and cello). The term “sonata” derives from the Italian word sonare, meaning “to sound,” and it often refers to a piece designed for performance rather than singing.
Typical Form of a Sonata
The typical structure of a sonata follows a multi-movement design, often comprising three or four movements. Each movement has its own character and tempo. Here’s the typical layout:
Sonatas can vary widely in style depending on the composer and era. For example, Classical sonatas by Haydn and Mozart tend to be more structured and graceful, whereas Beethoven pushed the form with bold ideas and emotional depth.
First Movement: Sonata Form (Allegro)
The typical structure of a sonata follows a multi-movement design, often comprising three or four movements. Each movement has its own character and tempo. Here’s the typical layout:
Exposition: Themes are introduced, often with contrasting characters (e.g., lyrical vs. dramatic).
Development: Themes are explored, modified, and combined, showcasing creativity and tension.
Recapitulation: Themes return, generally staying close to their original presentation but often resolving earlier conflicts
A lyrical, slower movement that contrasts the energetic first movement. It’s often contemplative or expressive.
A lyrical, slower movement that contrasts the energetic first movement. It’s often contemplative or expressive.
Sonatas can vary widely in style depending on the composer and era. For example, Classical sonatas by Haydn and Mozart tend to be more structured and graceful, whereas Beethoven pushed the form with bold ideas and emotional depth.
Haydin Sonata
Bold Played
Difficulty 1:
Hob. XVI:1 – C major
Hob. XVI:5 – A major
Hob. XVI:8 – G major
Hob. XVI:G1 – G major
Difficulty 1.5:
Hob. XVI:2 – B-flat major
Hob. XVI:3 – C major
Hob. XVI:4 – D major
Hob. XVI:6 – G major
Hob. XVI:7 – C major
Hob. XVI:9 – F major
Hob. XVI:10 – C major
Hob. XVI:11 – G major
Hob. XVI:12 – A major
Hob. XVI:13 – E major
Hob. XVI:26 – A major
Hob. XVI:43 – A-flat major
Hob. XVI:Es2 – E-flat major
Difficulty 2:
Hob. XVI:20 – C minor
Hob. XVI:27 – G major
Hob. XVI:32 – B minor
Hob. XVI:33 – D major
Hob. XVI:34 – E minor
Hob. XVI:35 – A major
Hob. XVI:36 – C-sharp minor
Hob. XVI:37 – D major
Hob. XVI:38 – F major
Hob. XVI:40 – G major
Hob. XVI:42 – D major
Hob. XVI:46 – A-flat major
Hob. XVI:50 – C major
Hob. XVI:51 – D major
Mozart Sonatas
Sonata No. 1, K. 279, C major – Beginner/Intermediate
- Sonata No. 2, K. 280, F major – Intermediate
- Sonata No. 3, K. 281, B-flat major – Intermediate
- Sonata No. 4, K. 282, E-flat major – Beginner/Intermediate
- Sonata No. 5, K. 283, G major – Intermediate
- 6. Sonata No. 6, K. 284, D major (“Dürnitz”) – Advanced
- Sonata No. 7, K. 309, C major – Intermediate
- Sonata No. 8, K. 310, A minor – Advanced
- Sonata No. 9, K. 311, D major – Intermediate/Advanced
- Sonata No. 10, K. 330, C major – Intermediate
- Sonata No. 11, K. 331, A major (“Alla Turca”) – Intermediate
- Sonata No. 12, K. 332, F major – Intermediate
- Sonata No. 13, K. 333, B-flat major – Intermediate/Advanced
- Sonata No. 14, K. 457, C minor – Advanced
- Sonata No. 15, K. 533/494, F major – Advanced
- Sonata No. 16, K. 545, C major (“Sonata Facile”) – Beginner
- Sonata No. 17, K. 570, B-flat major – Intermediate
- 18. Sonata No. 18, K. 576, D major (“The Hunt”) – Advanced
Beethoven
- Sonata No. 1, K. 279, C major – Beginner/Intermediate
- Sonata No. 2, K. 280, F major – Intermediate
- Sonata No. 3, K. 281, B-flat major – Intermediate
- Sonata No. 4, K. 282, E-flat major – Beginner/Intermediate
- Sonata No. 5, K. 283, G major – Intermediate
- Sonata No. 6, K. 284, D major (“Dürnitz”) – Advanced
- Sonata No. 7, K. 309, C major – Intermediate
- Sonata No. 8, K. 310, A minor – Advanced
- Sonata No. 9, K. 311, D major – Intermediate/Advanced
- Sonata No. 10, K. 330, C major – Intermediate
- Sonata No. 11, K. 331, A major (“Alla Turca”) – Intermediate
- Sonata No. 12, K. 332, F major – Intermediate
- Sonata No. 13, K. 333, B-flat major – Intermediate/Advanced
- 1 Sonata No. 14, K. 457, C minor – Advanced Moonlight
- 1 Sonata No. 15, K. 533/494, F major – Advanced
- Sonata No. 16, K. 545, C major (“Sonata Facile”) – Beginner
- Sonata No. 17, K. 570, B-flat major – Intermediate
- Sonata No. 18, K. 576, D major (“The Hunt”) – Advanced
- No. 27, Op. 90, E minor
- No. 15, Op. 28, D major (“Pastorale”)
- No. 16, Op. 31 No. 1, G major
- No. 21, Op. 53, C major (“Waldstein”)
- No. 18, Op. 31 No. 3, E-flat major
- No. 14, Op. 27 No. 2, C-sharp minor (“Moonlight”)
- No. 22, Op. 54, F major
- No. 23, Op. 57, F minor (“Appassionata”)
- No. 17, Op. 31 No. 2, D minor (“Tempest”)
- No. 12, Op. 26, A-flat major
- No. 28, Op. 101, A major
- No. 29, Op. 106, B-flat major (“Hammerklavier”) (Most difficult)
- No. 30, Op. 109, E major
- No. 31, Op. 110, A-flat major
- No. 32, Op. 111, C minor
The 25 Best Music Albums of 2024
Substack
Medium
Wattpad
the end
3
20
20
20
Composergarynoland – Composition Lessons, Music, Piano
piano
Composergarynoland – Composition Lessons, Music, Piano
Playing the PIano at the End of Time
Cosmos Movies TV Programs 2024 List
A quick update.
I finally completed a life long quest to play all the Mozart Piano Sonatas! Now I am on to another piano playing bucket list playing all the Beethoven piano sonatas. That will probably take until next year as I will be traveling for a few months and may not have access to a piano but I will take my Beethoven with me just in case and I want to buy some sheet music – more Jazz Standards. and maybe Tower of Power song book and Chopin piano pieces, and perhaps Schoenberg and 20th century composers.
Reigniting My Passion for Piano
Over the last year, I’ve reignited my passion for playing the piano. Music has always been a significant part of my life, and returning to it daily has been incredibly rewarding. Here’s a glimpse into my musical journey, goals for the year, and strategies to achieve them.
My Musical Journey:
I took piano lessons from first grade until I graduated from college. While in high school, I wrote a string quartet, piano sonata, flute sonata, and the first movement of a symphony. The string quartet and flute sonatas were performed at a concert honoring Berkeley gifted young people. I majored in music composition at Cal State Hayward and Oberlin but changed my major to political science and psychology at the University of the Pacific after some academic struggles. I played the piano daily from 1972 to 1984, and from 1988 to 2016, when I retired. From 2000 to 2003, I resumed writing music and composed five or six pieces. In 2021, I resumed playing the piano. This past year, I played daily until June when I took a six-month break as I did not have access to a piano. I will continue playing daily until June and, while in the States, will rent a piano to ensure I can keep practicing. Later in the year, I will buy a MIDI cable, and Sibelius music composition software and resume writing music posting one piece per month.
Goals for 2025:
- Daily Practice: Dedicate one hour per day to piano practice.
- Mastering Sonatas: Work my way through Mozart and Beethoven Sonatas. Purchase new music, including Funk classics, Jazz, and Rock standards.
- Music Education: Take music theory and composition courses.
- Equipment Upgrade: Buy a MIDI cable and download Sibelius to learn music writing.
- Composition: Rewrite music I composed in high school and aim to write one piece per month to post on my blog.
- Piano Access: Buy or rent a piano while in the States.
Strategy:
- Self-Teaching: Utilize YouTube tutorials to learn the fundamentals of music writing and take online music theory courses.
- Piece Analysis: Review each piece before playing, noting high and low notes, key signatures, and changes. Create cheat sheets for ornamentations such as turns and mordents.
- Separate Hand Practice: For Bach pieces, practice each hand separately before playing together.
- Listening and Learning: Listen to the music on YouTube before attempting to play.
Rediscovering Mozart and Beethoven:
My journey through the piano books will culminate in conquering Mozart and Beethoven’s Sonatas. I recently played my first Mozart Sonata and, to my surprise, did not do too badly. I plan to revisit it next year after completing my initial piano books. I am finally feeling comfortable playing Mozart. Still a challenge but one I can deal with.
Ode to My Pianos:
Ever since I was a young lad, I dreamt of being a professional piano player. Though that dream may never come true, my love for the instrument remains unwavering. At 70, I now play my Roland 88 piano almost every day, delighting in the creative ways I interpret the classics.
Learning to Play the Piano Leads to a Career in Music:
Buying a new piano and music software allowed me to practice nightly. Angela’s weekly piano lessons helped me master pieces, and I even joined a jazz band, the Diplomatic Jazz Ensemble. We released an album that gained unexpected popularity, leading me to retire from the Foreign Service and pursue a career as a studio musician and composer in San Francisco.
How to Re-Learn to Play the Piano:
Returning to piano after a hiatus involves picking a series of beginner to intermediate books, analyzing each piece, and practicing with a structured approach. Concentrating on accuracy and rhythm, I aim to play three to five pieces daily, gradually increasing my speed.
Piece List:
Here’s what I’ve played recently:
- Carl Philipp Emanuel Bach – Allegro
- Joseph Haydn – Andantino
- Joseph Haydn – Scherzo in F
- Mozart – Rondo in C
- Beethoven – Bagatelle in C
- Beethoven – Ecossaise in G
- Joseph Haydn – Seven German Dances 1-7 and Coda
- Carl Maria von Weber – Ecossaise in G major
- Jacob Schmitt – Sonatina in C
- Joseph Nepomuk Hummel – Bagatelle
Alzheimer’s Prevention: I believe that playing music, learning languages, and engaging in mental games are excellent ways to ward off dementia and Alzheimer’s. Given my increased risk, I’ve committed to daily piano practice, studying Korean, and engaging in creative writing and blogging as part of my prevention strategy.
Encouragement to Aspiring Musicians: To those nearing retirement and considering resuming an instrument, I encourage you to go for it. The rewards are immeasurable.
For more details, visit my webpage: The World According to Cosmos – On Playing Mozart Sonatas.
Embrace the joy of music and make it a part of your daily life!
Piano Playing 3-7-5
piano
playing my keyboards daily
I am getting better
Ode to My Pianos
Ever since I was a young lad
I wanted to play the piano
Had delusions I could be
A professional piano player.
But alas that was not my fate
I had four pianos in my life
Most recently I bought a Rolland 88 piano
And play it almost every day.
And now at age 70
I am finally getting fairly good
But I know that my dream
Of being a professional piano player.
Will never come true
But that is okay.
As I stumble my way through my music
Mutilating Bach, Beethoven, Blues Standards,
Mozart and so many others
In creative ways never heard before.
I think that their spirits
Will understand
And be amused and laughing
And not be too hurt
By my attempts.
An object
Write a poem about any object which you love the most let it be perfume,books,etc.
The list
Korean Light Classical Set
- Chopin Piece
- Beethoven Disco For Eliza
- Apartment
- Verglis Mein Nicht
- Malguenia
- Disco City
- Io Ti Daro Di Piu
- Dark Eye Boogie Woman
- El Bimbo
- Rumba Rhapsody
- Korean Song Book
- Ganadiri
- Nununhannuri
- Moknochuchang
- Babo
- Sarang
- Ayaohchmari
- Chackunlabi
- Changelog
- Hangku
- Kudaeyae
- Laegaedo Saranoi
- Miwoimiwoimiwoi
- Baramireoo
- Sarangsarangnuka Milhaeni
- Bayayae
- Yet Siinuilorae
- Chrumomoichukkae
- Ku Saram
- Biramchoram Nakyomchorum
- Saransuron Kudae
- Sarangiyo
100 Greatest Hits
- Ain’t No Mountain High Enough Marvin Gaye
- All Blues Nailed It, Miles Davis,
- All Day All The Night The Kinks
- All My Loving The Beatles
- Anarchy In The UK -Really Rocked Out With This One Sex Pistols
- And She Was Talking Heads
- Back On The Chain Gang Pretenders
- Bad Moon Rising Creedence Clearwater Revival Nailed It
- Badge Cream
- Being A Gong Get It On T Rex
- Beth Kiss
- Blueberry Hill Fats Domino Nailed It
- Bo Diddley Nailed It
- The Book Of Love Peter Gabriel
- Both Sides Now Joni Mitchel
- California Sun Ramones
- Can’t Help Falling In Love Elvis Presely
- Candle In The Wind Elton John
- Chain Gang Nailed It Nirvana
- Desperado Eagles
- Every Little Thing She Does Is Magic The Police
- Everyday I Write The Book Elvis Costello
- Everyday People Sly And The Family Stone
- Feeling Alright Traffic
- Fields Of Gold Sting
- 50 Ways To Leave Your Lover Paul Simon
- Forever Young Rod Stewart
- Foxy Lady Jimi Hendrix
- Freddy’s Dead Curtis Mayfield
- Free Falling Tom Petty
- Georgia On My Mind Ray Charles
- Give Up The Funk Chairs The Roof Off The Sucker Parliament
- Glory Days Bruce Springsteen
- I Can’t Help Myself Sugar Pie Honey Bunch The Four Tops
- I Still Haven’t Found What I Was Looking For You 2
- I Walk The Line Johnny Cash
- I’m Hoochie Choohie Man Muddy Waters
- Imagine John Lennon Then Plastic Ono Band
- Isn’t She Lovely Stevie Wonder
- It’s In The Way You Use It Eric Clapton
- It’s Too Late Carole King
- Just My Imagination Running Away From Me The Temptations
- Kashmir Led Zeppelin
- Landslide Fleetwood Mac
- Lay Lady Lay Bob Dylan
- Like A Prayer Madonna
- Living In America James Brown Losing My Religion R.E.M.
- Love Walks In Van Halen
- Lust For Life Iggy Pop
- Man In The Mirror Michael Jackson
- Me And Bobby Mcgee Janis Joplin
- Midnight Train At Georgia Gladys Knights And The Pips
- Money Pink Floyd
- Moondance Van Morrison
- Naima John Coltrane
- You Make Me Feel Like A Natural Woman Aretha Franklin
- Never Say Goodbye The Jackson Jackson 5 Night Fever The Bg’s
- The Night They Drove Old Dixie Down The Band
- 1999 Prince
- No Particular Place To Go, Chuck Berry,
- Ol 55 Tom Waits
- Only The Lonely You Know The Way I Feel Roy Orbison
- Oya Como Va Santana
- Peggy Sue Buddy Holly
- Proud Mary Ike And Tina Turner
- Pin Ball Wizzard The Who
- Pride And Joy Stevie Ray Vaughan
- Rambling Man Allman Brothers Band
- Reeling In The Years Steely Dan
- Rock The Casbash The Clash
- Ruby Tuesday The Rolling Stones
- September Earth Wind And Fire
- Silly Love Songs Paul Mccartney
- Sitting On The Dock Of The Bay Otis Redding
- The Sound Of Silence Simon And Garfield
- Sweet Emotions Aerosmith
- Sweet Home Chicago Robert Johnson
- Sweet Jane Velvet Underground
- Teach Your Children Crosby, Stills, Nash And Young
- The Tears Of A Clown Smokey Robinson And The Miracles
- 3 Little Birds Bob Marley
- The Thrill Is Gone B.B. King
- Tired Of Being Alone Al Green
- Touch Of Grey Grateful Dead
- Turn Turn Turn To Everything There’s This Season The Byrds
- Tutti Fruity Little Richard
- We Will Rock You Queen
- Working In The Coal Mine Devo
- Wouldn’t It Be Nice The Beach Boys
- You Can’t Hurry Love Diana Ross And The Supremes
- Young Americans David Bowie
Bach Two and Three Part Inventions
- 1 In C
- 2 IN E Flat
- 3 In D
- 4 In E Flat Major
- 5 In E Flat
- 6 In E
- 7 In B Minor
- 8 In F
- 9 In A Flat
- 10 In G
- 11 In G Minor
- 12 In A
- 13 In C
- 14 In B Flat
- 15 In D
- 16 Sinfonia 1 In C
- 17 Sinfonia 2 In C Minor
- 18 Sinfonia 3 In D
- 19 Sinfonia 4 In D Minor
- 20 Sinfonia 5 In E Flat
- 21 Sinfonnia 6 In E
- 22 Sinfonia 7 In G
- 23 Sinfonia 8 In F
- 24 Sinfonia 9 In F Minor
- 25 Sinfonia 10 In G
- 26 Sinfonia In G Minor
- 27 Sinfonia 12 In A
- 28 Sinfonia 13 In C
- 29 Sinfonia 14 In B Flat
- 30 Sinfonia 15 In F
Blues Standards
- All Your Love (I Miss Loving)
- Baby Please Don’t Go
- Baby, What You Want Me To Do
- Back Door Man
- Bluebird
- Blues Before Sunrise
- Blues With A Feeling
- Boogie Chillen No. 2
- Caledonia
- Checkin’ Up On My Baby
- Confessin’ The Blues
- Crossroads
- Everyday (I Have The Blues)
- Evil (Is Going On)
- Five Long Years
- Going Down Slow
- Good Morning Little Schoolgirl
- Help Me
- Honest I Do
- How Long, How Long Blues
- I Believe I’ll Dust My Broom
- I Can’t Quit You Baby
- I’m A Man
- I’m A Steady Rollin’ Man
- I’m Gonna Move On The Outskirts Of Town
- I’m Ready
- I’m Your Hoochie Coochie Man
- It Hurts Me Too
- Key To The Highway
- Killing Floor
- Little Red Rooster
- Mean Old Frisco
- Mean Old World
- Mellow Down Easy
- Merry Christmas, Baby
- Milk Cow Blues
- My Babe
- Nobody Knows You When You’re Down And Out
- On The Road Again
- Please Send Me Someone To Love
- Ramblin’ On My Mind
- Reconsider Baby
- Rollin’ And Tumblin’
- Saint James Infirmary
- Louis Blues
- See See Rider
- Sitting On Top Of The World
- The Sky Is Crying
- Smokestack Lightning
- Spoonful
- Sweet Home Chicago
- Tain’t Nobody’s Biz-Ness If I Do
- The Thrill Is Gone
- Trouble In Mind
- Walkin’ Blues
- Wang Dang Doodle
- You Don’t Have To Go
Duke Ellington Song Book
- Alabama Home
- Azure
- Birmingham Breakdown
- Black Butterfly
- Blip Blip
- Boy Meets Horn
- Brown Skin Gal In The Colico Gown
- Caravan
- Creole Love Call
- Come Sunday
- Day Dream
- Do Nothing Until You Hear From Me
- Doing The Crazy Walk
- Don’t Get Around Much Anymore
- Echoes Of Harlem
- Everything But You
- Five O Clock Drag
- Gal From Joes
- Gypsy With Out A Song
- I Got It Bad (And That Ain’t Good)
- Let A Song Go Out Of My Heart
- I Never Felt This Way Before
- I’m Just A Lucky So And So
- Riding On The Moon And Dancing On The Stars
- So In Love With You
- In A Sentimental Mood
- It Doesn’t Mean A Thing (If It Ain’t Got That Swing)
- Jeep In Jumping
- Lady In Blue
- Lost In Meditation
- Mood Indigo
- Paris Burning
- Please Forgive Me
- Prel;Ude To A Kiss
- Ring Dem
- Rocking My Rhtyim
- Satin Doll
- Solitude
- Something To Live For
- Sosphicated Lady
- Take The A Train
Took a break from June to December as I had no piano available
Bach WTC
- prelude and fugue 1
- prelude and fugue 2
- prelude and fugue 3
- prelude and fugue 4
- prelude and fugue 5
- prelude and fugue 6
- prelude and fugue 7
- prelude and fugue 8
- prelude and fugue 9
- prelude and fugue 10
- prelude and fugue 11
- prelude and fugue 12
- prelude and fugue 13
- prelude and fugue 14
- prelude and fugue 15
- prelude and fugue 16
- prelude and fugue 17
- prelude and fugue 18
- prelude and fugue 19
- prelude and fugue 20
Eric Satie Three Gymnopies
- Eric Satie three gymnopies 1
- Eric Satie three gymnopies 2
- Eric Satie three gymnopies 3
Improvised Jake Blues
24 Sonatas
Haydn Sonatas
- Haydn
- Haydn 1
- Hyadn 2
- Haydn 3
- Haydn 4
- Haydn 5
- Haydn 6
Mozart Sonatas
- Mozart 6
- Mozart 7
- Mozart 8
- Mozart 9
- Mozart 10
When I finish the Sonata book, I will finish the WTC before turning back to Mozart and latter Beethoven. That should take me to the end of the year along with my music classes and compositions.
Background on the Sonata form from Co-Pilot
The sonata is one of the most enduring forms in classical music, evolving over centuries while maintaining its core structure and principles. Typically, a sonata is an instrumental work composed for one or two instruments, like piano, violin, or a duo (e.g., piano and cello). The term “sonata” derives from the Italian word sonare, meaning “to sound,” and it often refers to a piece designed for performance rather than singing.
Typical Form of a Sonata
The typical structure of a sonata follows a multi-movement design, often comprising three or four movements. Each movement has its own character and tempo. Here’s the typical layout:
Sonatas can vary widely in style depending on the composer and era. For example, Classical sonatas by Haydn and Mozart tend to be more structured and graceful, whereas Beethoven pushed the form with bold ideas and emotional depth.
First Movement: Sonata Form (Allegro)
The typical structure of a sonata follows a multi-movement design, often comprising three or four movements. Each movement has its own character and tempo. Here’s the typical layout:
Exposition: Themes are introduced, often with contrasting characters (e.g., lyrical vs. dramatic).
Development: Themes are explored, modified, and combined, showcasing creativity and tension.
Recapitulation: Themes return, generally staying close to their original presentation but often resolving earlier conflicts
A lyrical, slower movement that contrasts the energetic first movement. It’s often contemplative or expressive.
A lyrical, slower movement that contrasts the energetic first movement. It’s often contemplative or expressive.
Sonatas can vary widely in style depending on the composer and era. For example, Classical sonatas by Haydn and Mozart tend to be more structured and graceful, whereas Beethoven pushed the form with bold ideas and emotional depth.
Haydin Sonata
Bold Played
Difficulty 1:
Hob. XVI:1 – C major
Hob. XVI:5 – A major
Hob. XVI:8 – G major
Hob. XVI:G1 – G major
Difficulty 1.5:
Hob. XVI:2 – B-flat major
Hob. XVI:3 – C major
Hob. XVI:4 – D major
Hob. XVI:6 – G major
Hob. XVI:7 – C major
Hob. XVI:9 – F major
Hob. XVI:10 – C major
Hob. XVI:11 – G major
Hob. XVI:12 – A major
Hob. XVI:13 – E major
Hob. XVI:26 – A major
Hob. XVI:43 – A-flat major
Hob. XVI:Es2 – E-flat major
Difficulty 2:
Hob. XVI:20 – C minor
Hob. XVI:27 – G major
Hob. XVI:32 – B minor
Hob. XVI:33 – D major
Hob. XVI:34 – E minor
Hob. XVI:35 – A major
Hob. XVI:36 – C-sharp minor
Hob. XVI:37 – D major
Hob. XVI:38 – F major
Hob. XVI:40 – G major
Hob. XVI:42 – D major
Hob. XVI:46 – A-flat major
Hob. XVI:50 – C major
Hob. XVI:51 – D major
Mozart Sonatas
Sonata No. 1, K. 279, C major – Beginner/Intermediate
- Sonata No. 2, K. 280, F major – Intermediate
- Sonata No. 3, K. 281, B-flat major – Intermediate
- Sonata No. 4, K. 282, E-flat major – Beginner/Intermediate
- Sonata No. 5, K. 283, G major – Intermediate
- 6. Sonata No. 6, K. 284, D major (“Dürnitz”) – Advanced
- Sonata No. 7, K. 309, C major – Intermediate
- Sonata No. 8, K. 310, A minor – Advanced
- Sonata No. 9, K. 311, D major – Intermediate/Advanced
- Sonata No. 10, K. 330, C major – Intermediate
- Sonata No. 11, K. 331, A major (“Alla Turca”) – Intermediate
- Sonata No. 12, K. 332, F major – Intermediate
- Sonata No. 13, K. 333, B-flat major – Intermediate/Advanced
- Sonata No. 14, K. 457, C minor – Advanced
- Sonata No. 15, K. 533/494, F major – Advanced
- Sonata No. 16, K. 545, C major (“Sonata Facile”) – Beginner
- Sonata No. 17, K. 570, B-flat major – Intermediate
- 18. Sonata No. 18, K. 576, D major (“The Hunt”) – Advanced
Beethoven
- Sonata No. 1, K. 279, C major – Beginner/Intermediate
- Sonata No. 2, K. 280, F major – Intermediate
- Sonata No. 3, K. 281, B-flat major – Intermediate
- Sonata No. 4, K. 282, E-flat major – Beginner/Intermediate
- Sonata No. 5, K. 283, G major – Intermediate
- Sonata No. 6, K. 284, D major (“Dürnitz”) – Advanced
- Sonata No. 7, K. 309, C major – Intermediate
- Sonata No. 8, K. 310, A minor – Advanced
- Sonata No. 9, K. 311, D major – Intermediate/Advanced
- Sonata No. 10, K. 330, C major – Intermediate
- Sonata No. 11, K. 331, A major (“Alla Turca”) – Intermediate
- Sonata No. 12, K. 332, F major – Intermediate
- Sonata No. 13, K. 333, B-flat major – Intermediate/Advanced
- 1 Sonata No. 14, K. 457, C minor – Advanced Moonlight
- 1 Sonata No. 15, K. 533/494, F major – Advanced
- Sonata No. 16, K. 545, C major (“Sonata Facile”) – Beginner
- Sonata No. 17, K. 570, B-flat major – Intermediate
- Sonata No. 18, K. 576, D major (“The Hunt”) – Advanced
- No. 27, Op. 90, E minor
- No. 15, Op. 28, D major (“Pastorale”)
- No. 16, Op. 31 No. 1, G major
- No. 21, Op. 53, C major (“Waldstein”)
- No. 18, Op. 31 No. 3, E-flat major
- No. 14, Op. 27 No. 2, C-sharp minor (“Moonlight”)
- No. 22, Op. 54, F major
- No. 23, Op. 57, F minor (“Appassionata”)
- No. 17, Op. 31 No. 2, D minor (“Tempest”)
- No. 12, Op. 26, A-flat major
- No. 28, Op. 101, A major
- No. 29, Op. 106, B-flat major (“Hammerklavier”) (Most difficult)
- No. 30, Op. 109, E major
- No. 31, Op. 110, A-flat major
- No. 32, Op. 111, C minor
The 25 Best Music Albums of 2024
Substack
Medium
Wattpad
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