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I decide which piece to tackle next really just based on two factors: (a) Do I like how it sounds? and (b) is it something within my grasp? The last factor probably could be broken down into two sub-questions, (b1) how much of a stretch would it be technically for me, and (b2) if it's a big stretch, how hard do I want to work on a piece right now?

But I'm not nearly disciplined enough to pick something deliberately because, say, I want to brush up on my 3-against-2's or anything like that. Though I certainly see the benefits in taking such an approach.

I stuck a couple of Einaudi albums on the ipod for my 10k run this morning. Una Mattina and I Giorni. I really like the former and the title track sounds like it may be within my grasp...but it's probably more complicated than it looks!

Thanks Monica. Actually, that sounds more how I have approached classical as well; sometimes there is a specific technique, yet often it is just something around my level but perhaps slightly more challenging.

Where would you all recommend beginning with Einaudi's music?

Depends on how far along you are, Waltz. Limbo is the easiest Einaudi piece, but I like I due fiumi as a not too challenging but incredibly pretty piece.

20thCenturyBoy, Una Mattina looks easier than it really is, as it's got some sneaky rhythmic challenges. I Giorni is not too bad at all, but it's long. There are also some big chords toward the end that I can't reach and had to re-arrange instead.

Although I haven't been here for awhile...I think this is a great idea!

I'm currently working on pieces from Einaudi's "Nightbook". What is frustrating is I can't get my hands on Einaudi's Nightbook CD through Amazon, so I resort to whatever is on youtube to hear what the pieces sound like.

It's great to hear from you again, Kawaigirl!! Any chance you'll be submitting something for the next recital (coming up May 15). Have you tackled "Reverie" yet? It's a bit harder than I feel up to tackling now, but I bet you would have little problem, and it's one of my favorite pieces on the album.

I bought my Nightbook CD as an import through the UK amazon.com, because I was too impatient to wait for the US release. It's also now on iTunes, if either of those places is easier for you to order from.

You guys got me curious about Einaudi so I just went to Youtube and found "Primavera".

Unfortunately, right after it started playing I had to leave the room and when I returned it had finished!

Fortunately, I didn't miss anything.

Txs Monica. My last resort is to go through amazon.uk as I like the actual CD and not a download via itunes. Okay...call me old fashion I was hoping that I get something learned in time for the next recital from Einaudi's Nightbook album. I find that the Nightbook pieces is much harder than his previous song books

I just wish his books would be spiral bound...

Ooh harsh! Not a fan I take it?!

I bought the Feb/March issue of Pianist magazine just because it had an intermediate-level Einaudi piece in it. (The Snow Prelude no. 2 from Nightbook) Thank goodness there was also a CD. This is going to be a challenge to learn. My first piece of new age music.

Re: bindings: I take everything that needs spiral binding in order to be used effectively at the piano to a local print shop that will shave the spine and insert a spiral. Very, very cheap, and the reduction in annoyance is priceless! I do the same with paperback cookbooks. I think my choral singing teacher gets a kickback from the print shop -- a lot of us end up going there and giving them new business.

You could say that.

I tell you what - if you like "New Age" music here is a tip:

Listen to some pieces by Greg Maroney. As a composer he runs circles 'round certain others that we won't name. But one of them hails from Montana originally.

Greg Maroney is very good indeed, Furtwangler. Kawaigirl has done some lovely recital pieces of his. But I still like Einaudi better.

I'll give Maroney a shot.

I have to admit, a while back I bought a "New Age" piano CD off Amazon called Piano Dreamers or somesuch.
It was awful. Reminded me of the worst sort of plinky plonky muzak. I don't get that feeling with Einaudi. Well, mostly anyway.

I enjoy both of these composers very much

Monica....I finally got the Nightbook CD from amazon.uk! I love the CD very much

Here's my latest contribution to the Einaudi thread:



I recorded it a while back but thought I might get around to doing a better take. Didn't happen.

I like Anthony's version better. I had a hard time making the middle chord section flow like syrup, for want of a better phrase. Mine's also much slower than the original. I didn't realize HOW much slower until I compared my video length to other youtube clips. Oops.

still excellent no matter what you say OK hoping today I can get a good take for Recital piece (one of two Einaudi choices)
- SC

That's beautiful Monica

I knew you were working on that one for a little while Monica. Glad to get to hear it finally. I did notice it was a bit slow but then again I'm quite familiar with the piece so I could tell pretty quickly that you'd run longer than the album length.

As for me, I'm working on another short piece from Nightbook. I'll likely wind up posting a video whenever I get done with it even if I do wind up using it for a future recital. I simply cannot keep things until a recital because then I just sit around and not work hard enough on new stuff.

TTigg, I can't wait to hear whatever piece it will be for your recital entry.