My teacher is entering me into a competition. I've done many before, but this one requires me to speak about the concerto I will be playing (Beethoven 3rd or Mozart D Minor 1st movement)and an American work of my choice (haven't decided yet need suggestions)with a time limit of 40 minutes. Rep. suggestions would be appreciated nd advice regarding public speaking.

Happy Holidays,
Carl

Beethoven 3 is good, you can talk about the Heiligenstadt testament and how it's the concerto that ushered in his "second period."

For an American piece, consider a Bolcom rag or the "Dead Moth Tango," the Muczynski toccata, or something from the Barber Excursions.

ooh I recommend the Mozart d minor. I think it's an amazing concerto.

"and advice regarding public speaking"

Practice in front of a mirror. When you have it down pat, then practice it at least once in front of relatives or friends.

as you're thinking about what to include in your speech, read up or whatever you need to do, then just talk it out. talking outloud can really help you pull your ideas together. Or if you're more of a writer than a speaker, just jotting down whatever comes to mind can help. The same "stage presence" type stuff that applies to acting and performing can help with public speaking. Try and act confident even if you're nervous. best of luck! sounds like a pretty cool competition actually!

How about MacDowell No.2 for American work?

Gershwin is great, but I don't know whether his work is played at competitions much. If it isn't that can work to your advantage or disadvantage really.

I did that competition in high school. It's a sham!

How do you mean Brendan?

Re: Public Speaking

Make sure you move your eyes around the room taking in everyone in the room. It is very easy to constantly look at one person in a room when making a speech. This is very unnerving for that person and for the others in the room as they feel you are having a private conversation with them. You'd be surprised how many speakers do this without noticing.

So, my advice is, talk to the room with both your eyes and your voice. Don't fix your glance on just one person.

I don't know if I've explained well what I intended to say.