Guitar Rock

This is a simple 16-bar piece, but its performance can make it captivating.

First, let's understand its structure.

It is divided into two sections: bars 1-8 and bars 9-16. These two sections are further subdivided into 1-4, 5-8, and 9-12, 13-16, respectively.

Furthermore, the composer's score only indicates one dynamic marking, forte, written in bar 1.

So, how should the dynamics be handled?

When comparing the material of bars 1-4 and 5-8, I believe the volume should be louder in bars 5-8. This is a natural progression given the number of notes. Therefore, since bars 9-12 share the same material as bars 1-4, and bars 13-16 share the exact same material as bars 5-8, bars 13-16 should be louder than bars 9-12.

As a result, if we apply the following dynamics, the music becomes very clear:

• Bars 1-4: between mezzo forte and forte
• Bars 5-8: between forte and fortissimo
• Bars 9-12: between mezzo forte and forte
• Bars 13-16: between forte and fortissimo

Other points to note include articulation. While staccato and legato should be observed, the challenge lies with staccato. It must never sound heavy. At this point, using 'instantaneous force' allows you to play the chords in bars 5-8 and 13-16 with a beautiful forte. Instantaneous force is the momentary recoil when applying force. Let's try it.

1. First, place your right-hand fingers (1-3-5) on the keys for the first chord (C-E-G) in bar 5. At this point, your fingers should be fully touching the keys but not yet pressed down.

2. This is where it begins. Briefly apply strong downward force with your wrist. As soon as the keys descend, your hand should instantly spring back up. This is the 'instantaneous force technique.' The instantaneous action is truly momentary. It's not about building up and holding force; it's a matter of less than a second. It's like touching something hot and quickly pulling your hand away. This produces a beautiful forte. Furthermore, if possible, relax your right-hand finger 1 and concentrate your focus on finger 5; if the G note is audible, it's perfect.

This piece does not particularly require melodic shaping and can be played in a straightforward, mechanical manner. However, attention should be paid to accurate tempo, rhythm, light and sharp staccato, smooth legato, and dynamic changes per phrase (in 4-bar units). Furthermore, if pressed, try playing bars 1-4 and 9-12 with different expressions. Even with the same material, vary the expression. Treat bars 9-12 slightly more subdued.