Jeff,

He does need to work a bit on the phrasing. My main concern first was the voicing. I agree that the "mysterious" middle section could use a little more mystery from proper voicing and perhaps a slightly slower and more varied tempo.

Sitting lower ...now that's an interesting suggestion. I've tried to get his arms horizontal with the keyboard and not adjust it for each piece.

Lastly, Anthony does not sing along. I understand that that is a time-honored technique, but it's not one his teacher has suggested. Nor is it one I have ever used myself.

Chopinmad,

Anthony is 13 now. He has been playing for five and a half years.

I'll let him comment on everybody's suggestions now!

Cheers,

David

For 13, well done. I think sitting lower will re-distribute everything. Don't forget, time and space in playing comes with age and living. My teacher used to tell me I would have these qualities as I aged--but I was impatient, so I forced myself to deliver the goods. Yet, when I listen to the old recordings, good as they were, nothing can compete with living life. My late tuner , Steve Borrell, once said, 'The piano is a reflection that reflects everything about the performer inside and out'. It's true! I am sure Anthony will always be a great player, and he is indeed quite mature in his way for his age, no doubt. He can take it with him forever, much like my boys play tennis and can play it forever.