February 2021 MTNA e-Journal

Far Better to Listen to than to Look At: A Reconsideration of Brahms’s Intermezzo in F Minor, Op. 118, No. 4
By Asher Armstrong

British music scholar Edwin Evans said of Brahms’s Intermezzo in F Minor, Op. 118, No. 4 that it was “far better to look at than to listen to,” designating it the low point of the set because of its conspicuous use of canon. A sentiment that is shared by many. Too frequently, Brahms’s status as a true Romantic is questioned over his use of “intellectual” techniques such as canon; this article takes a fresh look at the Intermezzo in F Minor, arguing that these techniques are part and parcel of Brahms’s full-hearted Romanticism. [Read More]

Baroque Brits: A Bridge to Bach
By Richard Masters

In this article, the writer explores British keyboard music of the baroque period, investigating its usefulness as preparatory repertoire for late-intermediate/early-advanced students who will soon be working on J.S. Bach. British works that correspond with specific technical and musical techniques used by Bach are identified. Composers covered include John Blow, Henry Purcell, Daniel Purcell, Thomas Arne, Jeremiah Clarke and others. Scores and recordings are provided, and the article includes a discussion of available editions. [Read More]

Poster Sessions

Near, Far, Wherever You Are: Implications and Considerations for Remote Piano Instruction
Presented by Katie Ostrosky, NCTM and Adam Yeargin  [View]

Nurturing the Adult Beginner: Group Piano Classes as a Form of Self-Care
Presented by Paola Savvidou, NCTM; Alissa Freeman and Melissa Coppola  [View]