Unlimited, timeless entry!
In the hope of pushing you to heights never imagined at the piano, I have created a challenge, the rewards and benefits of which being too numerous to list but which can include, depending on your path: general piano orientation, chord progression mastery, improvisational confidence, modal theory application, touch sensitivity, standard grade exam success, transposition ability, transcribing ease, composition skills, timing, internal piano clarity, fluency, complex repertoire acquisition, conscious interference reduction, ...
Should you wish to take up this challenge, it would be very motivating and inspirational if you shared your results on this dedicated piano challenge Facebook page. You could then receive feedback and be part of others' progress.
The challenge is as follows:
Level 1.
Rules: The following must be performed at 120, 140 and/or 160bpm with both hands. Staccato not legato for precision enhancement benefits. Only one octave is required. Eyes closed is recommended but not required. The key pattern of the scales/chords is the cycle of fourths because mastery of this is beneficial in its own right.
a. Major scales then major and minor triads, including the octave when ascending (C, E, G, C not just C, E, G, for example);
b. The four main chord types, namely: Major 7, dominant 7, minor 7, minor Major 7;
c. 6th, minor 6th, whole diminished, half-diminished, augmented.
Level 2.
All the above but at double-time and two octaves.
Whether or not you share your success on video, feel free to take the requires of this challenge further: increasing the tempo, using different time signatures and rhythms, more octaves, specific fingers, blended hands, etc.
Here is a good metronome online if you don't have a smartphone.
Recommended viewing if you feel it necessary to reach a higher level before attempting the challenge:
There is no expected time to complete this challenge. What is easy for some may not be to others, and vice versa. Simply follow your natural limit and push it. Use your internal piano. Follow the links in the descriptions of my videos for further study/philosophy ideas.
I look forward to seeing what becomes of this!
Tip: Steady Persistence.
