tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31858571669040750352024-03-15T19:10:18.409-06:00Lisztonian BlogFree classical piano recordings from Jeremiah JonesJeremiah Joneshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09108975640552659942noreply@blogger.comBlogger117125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3185857166904075035.post-1830097167691883152013-10-29T18:26:00.003-06:002013-10-29T18:26:38.913-06:00Clementi Sonatina Op. 36, No. 5So I'm a little late in getting a new recording out there.... but better late than never! I just posted a recording that I actually made many months ago, but struggled to find the time and energy to publish. The recording is of Clementi's 5th Sonatina from Op. 36. I wasn't pleased with my performance of this piece, particularly the left-hand of the first movement, but imperfection is a part of life :-)<div>
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<a href="http://www.lisztonian.com/titles/Sonatina+Op+36+No+5-133.html">Click here to visit the download page</a></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03530660608051382807noreply@blogger.com24tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3185857166904075035.post-29243231162858441012013-05-27T09:16:00.002-06:002013-05-27T09:21:43.589-06:00New Photos of Plaque<a href="http://www.lisztonian.com/images/piano/signatures-5-27-2013-small.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://www.lisztonian.com/images/piano/signatures-5-27-2013-small.jpg" width="320" /></a><br />
I've been updating the names on my piano's plaque regularly - but cannot say the same for posting photos! I've finally posted new photos of my plaque that includes all of the most recent donor names through March.
<a href="http://www.lisztonian.com/donate/plaque.php">Visit this page to view the plaque</a>!Jeremiah Joneshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09108975640552659942noreply@blogger.com33tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3185857166904075035.post-40918066112572257722013-02-07T14:22:00.001-07:002013-02-07T14:25:08.068-07:00Current Project - Beethoven SonataHere is my current "work in progress" - a Beethoven Sonata...
<iframe width="380" height="225" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/GRBu6uwAVIY?list=UUjz1Lu3AsStgfFEJDHhdBVg" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe>Jeremiah Joneshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09108975640552659942noreply@blogger.com38tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3185857166904075035.post-9484198447601084132012-11-03T09:17:00.001-06:002012-11-03T09:39:36.123-06:00Upright vs. Grand<a href="http://www.lisztonian.com/images/piano/piano-small.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="142" src="http://www.lisztonian.com/images/piano/piano-small.jpg" width="200" /></a>A visitor to my website recently contacted me and asked my opinion on owning an upright vs. a grand piano. They asked my opinion because my older recordings were all made on my upright while my newer recordings were made on my grand. I thought that this was an intriguing question, worthy of sharing on my blog. Below is the answer that I provided:<br />
......<br />
You asked about my thoughts on having an upright vs. a grand piano. In
general, I believe that beautiful art can be created regardless of the
medium. However, the instrument does have a profound affect on the
music. I was finally able to purchase a Steinway grand piano a few
years ago. This was after many years of saving and working towards that
goal. The difference in both sound and touch are extraordinary. I
still own my original upright piano as well. I now produce all of my
recordings on my Steinway grand; but my older recordings were all
recorded on my upright.<br />
<br />
So to answer your question, yes, I believe that the instrument makes a
tremendous difference. However, the instrument should never be a reason
for an artist to stop producing art. A true artist will work with
whatever instrument they have to produce beautiful music. Pianists
especially know this, as we cannot take our own instrument with us when
we travel to perform and are subject to whatever instrument is
available. I have even been asked to perform on pianos that were
missing keys!<br />
<br />
So make the best music that you can with whatever instrument you have
available to you; but the quality of the instrument certainly does make a
difference. If you can afford the space and money to purchase a good
quality grand piano, then it will definitely provide a better sound.
The touch will largely depend on the manufacturer - so you will want to
spend a good amount of time playing each piano before you consider
purchasing one to make sure that it "feels" right for you.<br />
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Steinway, in my opinion, is still the best piano manufacturer. However,
they are quite costly. I purchased mine second-hand (used) but only
after more than a year of looking at used pianos to find the right one
for me. It was a long journey to save the money and then to find the
right piano!<br />
<br />
I wish you the very best in your personal journey towards finding the
right musical instrument for you. When you find the right one, you will
"know it" both in your hands and in your heart; and it will bring you a
lifetime of joy!<br />
......Jeremiah Joneshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09108975640552659942noreply@blogger.com19tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3185857166904075035.post-56723133312807527842011-10-14T12:20:00.002-06:002011-10-14T12:23:33.995-06:00Helping to Sell a Piano to Raise Funds for the Gina Bachauer FoundationThe <a href="http://www.bachauer.com/">Gina Bachauer International Piano Foundation </a>received a beautiful Baldwin Model L piano as a donation. They are now selling that piano to raise funds to use towards their admirable mission to "promote and perpetuate the pianistic art!"<br /><br />If you are aware of somebody looking for a grand piano, then be sure to <a href="http://bachauer.jkjonesco.com/">pass along the website</a>.Jeremiah Joneshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09108975640552659942noreply@blogger.com21tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3185857166904075035.post-35552361932400462142011-03-13T10:39:00.002-06:002011-03-13T10:42:39.782-06:00Muzio Clementi's Sonatina Op. 36 No. 3Here is the 3rd Sonatina in the set of Six Sonatina's by Muzio Clementi. I hope to find the time to finish all six before the end of 2011 :)<br /><br />I hope that you enjoy this recording. You may download it from my <a href="http://www.lisztonian.com/titles/Sonatina+Op+36+No+3-114.html">website</a>, <a href="http://www.lisztonian.com/">http://www.lisztonian.com/</a>, or by subscribing to my free <a href="http://phobos.apple.com/WebObjects/MZStore.woa/wa/viewPodcast?id=271127668">iTunes</a> or <a href="http://social.zune.net/podcast/SignMyPiano:-Classical-Music/eb1d6486-1c8f-4f9a-9d7c-1d2a3b6542b4">Zune</a> podcast.<br /><br /><script type="text/javascript" src="http://www.lisztonian.com/music/download/Sonatina+Op+36+No+3-114-slim.js"></script><br /><br />Happy Listening!<br /><a href="http://facebook.com/signmypiano">Jeremiah Jones</a>Jeremiah Joneshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09108975640552659942noreply@blogger.com17tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3185857166904075035.post-47697270407841429562010-12-01T06:40:00.005-07:002010-12-01T06:53:27.204-07:00New Signatures Added to Piano!<a href="http://www.lisztonian.com/images/piano/signatures-12-1-2010.jpg"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; FLOAT: left; CURSOR: hand" border="0" alt="" src="http://www.lisztonian.com/images/piano/signatures-12-1-2010-small.jpg" width="250" /></a> THANK YOU to the many people who have contributed to my music in so many different ways. I especially thank those who have shown support through generous financial contributions. Each recording session costs me approximately $180 (USD), not counting the many hours both before and after each recording. As a result, the kind and thoughtful donations from my listeners are a welcomed and sincerely appreciated gift.<br /><br />Each individual who donates has the opportunity to include a "signature" that is permanently printed on a plaque mounted to my piano's music stand. I try to update the names on the plaque every few months and just got it back from "the shop" with the latest round of signatures. You can view all of the signatures and donations by <a href="http://www.lisztonian.com/donate/doner-list.php">clicking here</a>. To go striaght to the pictures, <a href="http://www.lisztonian.com/donate/plaque.php">click here</a>.<br /><br />My heart is always so touched by the thoughtfulness of my listeners. I've received so many words of encouragement and am constantly uplifted by the sincere expressions you give. THANK YOU!<br /><br />If you would like to have your signature included on the piano, you are always welcome to make a donation of any amount by visiting the <a href="http://www.lisztonian.com/donate/easy-donate.php">donation page on my website</a>. Additionally, there are many other ways you can contribute to spreading a love for classical music! For more information on ways to contribute, <a href="http://www.lisztonian.com/donate/help-support-free-music.php">click here</a>.<br /><br />Wishing you all the very best,<br /><a href="http://www.facebook.com/lisztonian">Jeremiah Jones</a>Jeremiah Joneshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09108975640552659942noreply@blogger.com15tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3185857166904075035.post-4142205799921663532010-11-18T13:25:00.004-07:002010-11-18T14:01:21.414-07:00Schumann Fantasy in C Op. 17 III Lento SostenutoThere are often life events that occur which cause deep reflection, sincere probing, and eventually a complete surrender to the lack of mortal ability to truly comprehend the workings of the universe. The term "unpredictable" is hardly adequate in describing the paths that weave our lives together, and sometimes tear our lives apart. As I find myself at these junctions in life, I find peace and safety in turning my heart to God, the Father of us all. I consider this a willing submission - an understanding that my thoughts are insignificant when compared to a higher, revelatory omniscience; an acceptance of my human weakness; an adoration for a caring and all-knowing Creator. To those who view my religious <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_0" class="blsp-spelling-corrected">pining</span> as a flaw, detriment, or weakness, I say, "let me have my religion!" Why disfavor a spiritual sense that brings peace during turmoil, purpose to the confusion of life, and inspires to entreat others with love and brotherly kindness? Is it a flaw to lift one <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_1" class="blsp-spelling-error">another's</span> burdens, a detriment to warm a saddened heart, or a weakness to lift the head that hangs down? Let me have my religion!<br /><br />These are some of the thoughts that enter my heart as I listen to or play the final movement of Schumann's masterpiece keyboard work, <a href="http://www.lisztonian.com/titles/Fantasy+in+C+Major+Op+17+III+Lento+Sostenuto-112.html">Fantasy in C</a>. I've just released my recording of this final movement and invite each of you to listen and reflect on what this music means to you. To me, it is a reflection of some of my heart's most intimate and tender feelings.<br /><br />As always, you may visit my <a href="http://www.lisztonian.com/"><span id="SPELLING_ERROR_2" class="blsp-spelling-error">Lisztonian</span> website</a> to download this <a href="http://www.lisztonian.com/titles/Fantasy+in+C+Major+Op+17+III+Lento+Sostenuto-112.html">latest recording</a> or subscribe to my free <a href="http://phobos.apple.com/WebObjects/MZStore.woa/wa/viewPodcast?id=271127668"><span id="SPELLING_ERROR_3" class="blsp-spelling-error">iTunes</span></a> or <a href="http://social.zune.net/podcast/SignMyPiano:-Classical-Music/eb1d6486-1c8f-4f9a-9d7c-1d2a3b6542b4"><span id="SPELLING_ERROR_4" class="blsp-spelling-error">Zune</span></a> podcast to automatically receive new recordings. You may also listen to this recording by using the media player below (where available).<br /><br /><script type="text/javascript" src="http://www.lisztonian.com/music/download/Fantasy+in+C+Major+Op+17+III+Lento+Sostenuto-112-slim.js"></script><br /><br /><a href="http://facebook.com/signmypiano">Jeremiah Jones</a>Jeremiah Joneshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09108975640552659942noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3185857166904075035.post-47949016968307768922010-09-12T17:12:00.004-06:002010-09-12T17:17:20.339-06:00Muzio Clementi's Sonatina Op. 36 No. 2I just finished publishing the next (No. 2) Sonatina in the set of Six Sonatina's by Muzio Clementi. This was recorded at the request of a listener. These Sonatinas are fun to play and I highly recommend them to any budding pianist.<br /><br />I hope that you enjoy this recording. You may download it from my <a href="http://www.lisztonian.com/titles/Sonatina+Op+36+No+2-111.html">website</a>, <a href="http://www.lisztonian.com/">http://www.lisztonian.com/</a>, or by subscribing to my free <a href="http://phobos.apple.com/WebObjects/MZStore.woa/wa/viewPodcast?id=271127668">iTunes</a> or <a href="http://social.zune.net/podcast/SignMyPiano:-Classical-Music/eb1d6486-1c8f-4f9a-9d7c-1d2a3b6542b4">Zune</a> podcast.<br /><br /><script type="text/javascript" src="http://www.lisztonian.com/music/download/Sonatina+Op+36+No+2-111-slim.js"></script><br /><br />Happy Listening!<br /><a href="http://facebook.com/signmypiano">Jeremiah Jones</a>Jeremiah Joneshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09108975640552659942noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3185857166904075035.post-3333591475549135072010-07-13T14:44:00.005-06:002010-07-13T15:25:16.869-06:00How do you mic your piano?A visitor to my <a href="http://www.facebook.com/lisztonian"><span id="SPELLING_ERROR_0" class="blsp-spelling-error">Facebook</span> <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_1" class="blsp-spelling-error">fanpage</span></a> just presented the question:<br /><br /><span style="font-size:180%;">"How do you mic your piano for these recordings and how many?"</span><br /><br />So here is the answer!<br /><br />All of my recordings prior to the <a href="http://www.lisztonian.com/titles/Ecossaises+WoO+83+Serie+25+No+302-110.html"><span id="SPELLING_ERROR_2" class="blsp-spelling-error">Ecossaises</span></a> release on July 11<span id="SPELLING_ERROR_3" class="blsp-spelling-error">th</span> were made on my Pearl River upright. I recorded for many years on this piano with limited success. I tried several ways to mic the piano but it just wasn't a recording-quality instrument. However, the best sound tended to come by opening the lid and removing the <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_4" class="blsp-spelling-error">kickplate</span> (not sure what to call it) that covers the strings beneath the keyboard. I then placed my mics about 6-8 feet back (about as far back as the room would allow) pointed towards the top of the piano. I kept the mics about a foot apart.<br /><br />With <a href="http://www.lisztonian.com/donate/doner-list.php">my new piano</a>, I have only had one recording session so far, but compared to my previous recordings, the sound was spectacular! For this one, I opened the lid on the piano and placed the mics about 6-8 feet back and about a foot apart - just like my old configuration. I figured I'd start with that approach as I had limited time and had the best success with that on my upright.<br /><br />So that is how I've done it - but as anybody who has attempted to record a piano knows, there are limitless ways to mic a piano and it will depend on the desired sound, the piano, the mics, the room, and the alignment of the planets. Here are some other resources that I've used in my decision-making and experimentation:<br /><ul><li><a href="http://www.wikirecording.org/Shure">Mic techniques for studio recording</a></li><li><a href="http://www.doghousenyc.com/articles/piano1.php">Several great ways to mic a piano</a></li><li><a href="http://homerecording.about.com/od/recordingtutorials/f/piano_recording.htm">Home Piano Recording</a></li></ul><br />For equipment, my budget is limited, so I use two <a href="http://www.audio-technica.com/cms/resource_library/files/9c810e8b2dc17f27/pro_25prodpro.pdf">PRO 25 microphones</a> (about the cheapest I could get away with). I originally recorded with just one, and eventually saved up to purchase the second. I was a poor college student when I first started my recordings, so even one microphone was a huge <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_5" class="blsp-spelling-corrected">luxury</span>. I then purchased the lowest-cost mixer that I could find at the local guitar shop to use in converting the audio signal into something that my computer could understand. I use Nero's <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_6" class="blsp-spelling-error">WaveEditor</span> to record onto the computer and to clean it up as best as I can. On some of my recordings I have then used <a href="http://audacity.sourceforge.net/">Audacity</a> and the <a href="http://www.vstplanet.com/VST_effects/Reverb/Dasample%20GlaceVerb%201.01.exe"><span id="SPELLING_ERROR_7" class="blsp-spelling-error">GlaceVerb</span></a> <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_8" class="blsp-spelling-error">plugin</span> to add a touch of <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_9" class="blsp-spelling-error">reverb</span> as my living room is so small and is not an acoustically ideal setting.<br /><br />Good luck in your own recordings!Jeremiah Joneshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09108975640552659942noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3185857166904075035.post-70700047683485272892010-07-11T16:53:00.008-06:002010-07-12T07:41:42.775-06:00First Recording on the NEW PIANO! Beethoven's Ecossaises WoO 83<a href="http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/6/6f/Beethoven.jpg/270px-Beethoven.jpg"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 270px; FLOAT: right; HEIGHT: 325px; CURSOR: hand" border="0" alt="" src="http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/6/6f/Beethoven.jpg/270px-Beethoven.jpg" /></a> It's finally here! My <a href="http://www.lisztonian.com/titles/Ecossaises+WoO+83+Serie+25+No+302-110.html">first recording</a> on my newly-acquired <a href="http://www.lisztonian.com/donate/plaque.php">Steinway A III</a> :) I've been recording music on my upright piano for several years and am so excited to finally be recording on such a fine instrument.<br /><br />The piano was freshly tuned, regulated, and voiced earlier the morning of the recording session to make sure that it would sound its best. I hope that all of my listener's will enjoy the refreshing new sound!<br /><br />Now for a little information about the work. This recording is a short, little piece by Beethoven. It is an Écossaise, which is a Scottish dance full of energy and wide-ranging dynamics. I am not aware of any title for this work other than Écossaise Serie 25 No. 302 (WoO 83). If anybody out there has heard of a commonized title, please let me know! This was a fun piece to learn and remains fun to play. My 7 year old daughter enjoyed it so much that she asked me to teach it to her. I hope that you will enjoy it as well!<br /><br />In addition to the audio recording, I also made a home video of me performing the work. You can watch that below (if it shows up) or <a href="http://www.youtube.com/signmypiano">here, on my YouTube channel</a>.<br /><object width="480" height="385"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/8JrSmeiO9HQ&hl=en_US&fs=1?rel=0"><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"><br /><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/8JrSmeiO9HQ&hl=en_US&fs=1?rel=0" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="480" height="385"></embed></object><br /><br />You can download the <a href="http://www.lisztonian.com/titles/Ecossaises+WoO+83+Serie+25+No+302-110.html">MP3/WMA or the PDF of the score from this link</a>. As always, the recording is also available on my <a href="http://phobos.apple.com/WebObjects/MZStore.woa/wa/viewPodcast?id=271127668">free iTunes podcast</a>.<br /><br />ENJOY!<br /><a href="http://www.facebook.com/lisztonian">Jeremiah Jones</a>Jeremiah Joneshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09108975640552659942noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3185857166904075035.post-87585978915898900952010-06-25T14:38:00.005-06:002010-06-25T15:08:05.734-06:00I BOUGHT MY PIANO!!<a href="http://www.lisztonian.com/donate/plaque.php"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; FLOAT: right; CURSOR: hand" border="0" alt="" src="http://www.lisztonian.com/images/piano/piano-small.jpg" /></a>Thanks to the support, encouragement, and graciousnous of my listeners, I finally found and purchased a Steinway piano! It is a vintage 1941 Model A III.<br /><br />As promised, I have had a plaque made and engraved with the names of all those who have donated! (<a href="http://www.lisztonian.com/donate/plaque.php">view pictures of the piano/plaque here</a>)I will continue to add names of donors until the plaque is filled. Recent donations will be engraved on the plaque every few weeks.<br /><br />THANK YOU SO MUCH for helping to make my piano-dream come true :)<br /><br />I will continue accepting <a href="http://www.lisztonian.com/donate/help-support-free-music.php">donations</a> on my site to help pay for the tuning, regulating, voicing, and other maintenance of the piano - as well as for the website, hosting, recording, and materials involved. I will also continue adding those "signatures" to the plaque mounted on my piano's music stand (as shown in the picture). I cannot say enough how much I appreciate knowing that my music has brought enjoyment to so many people. It is an artist's dream-come-true.<br /><br />Please enjoy looking at a few pictures of my piano on my website by <a href="http://www.lisztonian.com/donate/plaque.php">clicking here</a>.Jeremiah Joneshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09108975640552659942noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3185857166904075035.post-56093812460437099742010-04-19T19:19:00.003-06:002010-04-19T19:24:24.606-06:00Gina Bachauer Announces Competition Schedule!<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_AJc96-X3DBM/S80CNwsSpFI/AAAAAAAAAFg/R3MP3VgRz54/s1600/bachauer-poster-2010.jpg"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 201px; FLOAT: left; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5462024358502507602" border="0" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_AJc96-X3DBM/S80CNwsSpFI/AAAAAAAAAFg/R3MP3VgRz54/s320/bachauer-poster-2010.jpg" /></a> <div>The schedule for <a href="http://www.facebook.com/ginabachauer#!/event.php?eid=103498939693541&ref=mf">The XV Gina Bachauer International Artists Piano Competition</a> has officially been announced! If you are in or near UT during the final weeks of June, then you need to set aside some time to attend this spectacular event. Acclaimed artists from all around the world will be gathering here in my hometown to demonstrate the many hours of hard work and the dedicated emotion that they put into their piano studies. I always walk away from this event with such elation!</div><br /><div></div><br /><div>If you plan on attending, please let me know so that I can keep an eye out for you. Be sure to visit the <a href="http://www.bachauer.com/">Bachauer Website</a> for more details.</div><br /><div></div><br /><div><a href="http://www.facebook.com/signmypiano">Jeremiah Jones</a></div>Jeremiah Joneshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09108975640552659942noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3185857166904075035.post-69471791159466371842010-04-16T23:51:00.004-06:002010-04-17T00:07:08.650-06:00CONTEST RESULTS! Congratulations Thirdy!The results from the <a href="http://blog.signmypiano.com/2010/04/win-prize-while-sharing-your-love-of.html">recent contest</a> are in and the winner of the photo prize is:<br /><br /><span style="font-size:180%;">THIRDY! With 98 "likes"</span><br /><br />You can view his picture <a href="http://www.facebook.com/photo.php?pid=157945&op=1&o=global&view=global&subj=102766077732&id=100000318003805">here</a> (also pictured below, where supported).<br /><br /><br /><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5460982546984673938" border="0" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_AJc96-X3DBM/S8lOsWWhIpI/AAAAAAAAAFY/hVD_Djql5iE/s320/ContestWinner.jpg" /><br /><br /><br />THANK YOU EVERYBODY who joined in the contest and shared your photos about classical music. We had such wonderful entries and I hope to do a similar contest again in the future. The winner will also be notified via a private message to arrange for delivery of the contest prize.<br /><br />THANK YOU AGAIN FOR PARTICIPATING!Jeremiah Joneshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09108975640552659942noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3185857166904075035.post-16959879409533951852010-04-02T14:21:00.003-06:002010-04-02T14:26:29.059-06:00WIN A PRIZE while sharing your love of classical music!To help promote a passion for classical music, <a href="http://www.facebook.com/pages/SignMyPianocom/102766077732">SignMyPiano</a> is holding a <strong>PHOTO CONTEST</strong>!<br /><br />To win, you just need to choose a photo that shows any one of the following:<br />- You performing classical music<br />- You listening to or enjoying classical music<br />- anything that represents WHY YOU LIKE classical music<br /><br />And then get all of your friends to "like" your photo! The photo with the most "like"s by April 16th, 2010 will win! (see below for information about PRIZES)<br /><br />Your photo needs to be YOUR OWN and should not include any innappropriate content (they will be removed promptly)<br /><br /><span style="font-size:130%;">HOW TO SUBMIT:</span><br />* Become a classical piano fan on the SignMyPiano fanpage here: <a href="http://www.facebook.com/pages/SignMyPianocom/102766077732">http://www.facebook.com/pages/SignMyPianocom/102766077732</a><br /><ul><li>On the <a href="http://www.facebook.com/pages/SignMyPianocom/102766077732">SignMyPiano fanpage</a>, post a photo on the "Wall" by using the "attach" button</li><li>Upload the photo along with any comment you may want to include</li><li>Find your photo in the "Photos" section of the fanpage, click on it, and then click the "Share +" button to send it to all of your friends!</li><li>Be sure to tell your friends to "like" your photo so that you can win</li></ul><br /><span style="font-size:130%;">DEADLINE:</span><br />The contest will end on April 16th, 2010 as soon as I have a chance to tally the results! So hurry and submit your photo!<br /><br /><span style="font-size:130%;">WINNER:</span><br />The winner will be selected based on the number of "like"s. The more you share your photo with friends, the better your chances of winning!<br /><br />PRIZES:<br />So what does the winner get!?!? The fan who submits the photo with the most "like"s will win his/her choice of:<br /><ul><li>An autographed CD from Lisztonian.com<br /><strong>OR</strong><br /></li><li>A T-shirt that says "I LOVE CLASSICAL MUSIC" (or something to that effect)<br /><strong>OR</strong><br /></li><li>A small plaque with the winning photo and recognition for this accomplishment!</li></ul><br /><br />** Prizes will be shipped anywhere in the world where the USPS will ship!<br /><br /><span style="font-size:130%;">QUESTIONS:<br /></span>If you have any questions, then please feel free to contact Jeremiah Jones, the founder and Artist of <a href="http://www.lisztonian.com/">Lisztonian.com</a>, at lisztonian@jkjonesco.com<br /><br /><span style="font-size:180%;">GOOD LUCK!</span>Jeremiah Joneshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09108975640552659942noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3185857166904075035.post-68309855673398420052010-04-02T00:07:00.004-06:002010-04-02T12:06:13.135-06:00Debussy's Prelude Book 1 No. 10 - The Sunken Cathedral<a href="http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/f/f9/Claude_Debussy_ca_1908%2C_foto_av_F%C3%A9lix_Nadar.jpg/220px-Claude_Debussy_ca_1908%2C_foto_av_F%C3%A9lix_Nadar.jpg"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 220px; FLOAT: right; HEIGHT: 305px; CURSOR: hand" border="0" alt="" src="http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/f/f9/Claude_Debussy_ca_1908%2C_foto_av_F%C3%A9lix_Nadar.jpg/220px-Claude_Debussy_ca_1908%2C_foto_av_F%C3%A9lix_Nadar.jpg" /></a>Debussy composed two books of preludes. This recording is from the first book and is No. 10 - "La <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_0" class="blsp-spelling-error">cathédrale</span> <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_1" class="blsp-spelling-error">engloutie</span>" (The Sunken Cathedral). This work was <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_2" class="blsp-spelling-corrected">inspired</span> by the legend of the city of <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_3" class="blsp-spelling-error">Ys</span> (pronounced "<span id="SPELLING_ERROR_4" class="blsp-spelling-error">ees</span>" - as in "geese"). There are many variations on this legend, so I will only briefly describe the more common elements among the legends. <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_5" class="blsp-spelling-error">Ys</span> was built below sea level and had a strong city wall that kept the water from entering and engulfing the city. There was a single gate to the city and only the king held the key which could unlock the gate. The king's daughter, <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_6" class="blsp-spelling-error">Dahut</span>, led the beautiful city into a downward spiral of sin and immorality. Eventually, <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_7" class="blsp-spelling-error">Dahut</span> was tricked into stealing the key to the gates whereupon the gates where opened during a tremendous storm which then submerged the city beneath the sea. As the legend goes, the bells of the church can still be heard ringing from beneath the sea on particularly calm days.<br /><br />Debussy's work is inspired from a variation on the legend that concludes with the city <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_8" class="blsp-spelling-corrected">occasionally</span> rising from the sea to serve as a reminder of what destruction came upon the great city due to its corruption and sin. The sea begins to rise with the sound of the <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_9" class="blsp-spelling-corrected">church bells</span> as it emerges from the sea. This eventually is followed by the resounding and powerful tones of the church organ as the city is fully risen. The city then sinks back into the sea to await another time when it might rise again. This prelude of Debussy's follows this storyline quite closely and the sounds of the bells and the organ can be heard as the work progresses. It is a powerful piece of music full of imagery.<br /><br />I hope that you enjoy my recording of Debussy's "Sunken Cathedral"! You can download my recording by visiting <a href="http://www.lisztonian.com/titles/Preludes+Book+1+No+10+La+cathdrale+engloutie+The+Engulfed+Cathedral+Profondment+calme-108.html">this page</a> of my website, <a href="http://www.lisztonian.com/">http://www.lisztonian.com/</a>. I also encourage you to subscribe to my free <a href="http://phobos.apple.com/WebObjects/MZStore.woa/wa/viewPodcast?id=271127668"><span id="SPELLING_ERROR_10" class="blsp-spelling-error">iTunes</span></a> or <a href="http://social.zune.net/podcast/SignMyPiano:-Classical-Music/eb1d6486-1c8f-4f9a-9d7c-1d2a3b6542b4"><span id="SPELLING_ERROR_11" class="blsp-spelling-error">Zune</span></a> podcast so that you can automatically receive new recordings as they are published. You may also use the embedded media player below (where available) to listen to this recording.<br /><br /><br /><script type="text/javascript" src="http://www.lisztonian.com/music/download/Preludes+Book+1+No+10+La+cathdrale+engloutie+The+Engulfed+Cathedral+Profondment+calme-108-slim.js"></script><br /><br /><a href="http://www.facebook.com/signmypiano">Jeremiah Jones</a>Jeremiah Joneshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09108975640552659942noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3185857166904075035.post-20384321948686778412010-02-13T00:27:00.005-07:002010-02-13T00:35:59.110-07:00Fingering for Liszt's Liebestraume (Nocturne No. 3) in A-flatI had a friend contact me through <a href="http://www.youtube.com/user/signmypiano">my YouTube channel</a> today asking about the fingering I use for Liszt's <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_0" class="blsp-spelling-error">Liebestraume</span> - the first cadenza. I thought this was a useful question to add to my blog, so I printed out a public-domain copy of the first cadenza and wrote in the fingering that I use. Click on the image below to view it in full size or go to <a href="http://lisztonian.com/images/fingering-liebestraume.jpg" target="_blank">http://lisztonian.com/images/fingering-liebestraume.jpg</a>.<br /><br /><a href="http://lisztonian.com/images/fingering-liebestraume.jpg" target="_blank"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 350px; DISPLAY: block; CURSOR: hand" border="0" alt="" src="http://www.lisztonian.com/images/fingering-liebestraume.jpg" /></a>Jeremiah Joneshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09108975640552659942noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3185857166904075035.post-22895417803492934022010-01-25T01:36:00.003-07:002010-01-25T01:46:43.346-07:00Clementi's Sonatina Op. 36, No. 1 in C Major<a href="http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/en/thumb/c/c9/Muzio_Clementi.jpeg/180px-Muzio_Clementi.jpeg"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; FLOAT: right; CURSOR: hand" border="0" alt="" src="http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/en/thumb/c/c9/Muzio_Clementi.jpeg/180px-Muzio_Clementi.jpeg" /></a>Muzio Clementi was a great composer and pianist and is considered by many to be the "father" of composition for the pianoforte (the earliest version of the modern piano). He composed a great many sonatas and shorter/easier works called Sonatinas. Although his works are not frequently heard, and he has become somewhat of an obscurity, his music was certainly influential both directly through the musical form of the Sonata as well as indirectly through his influence on other composers.<br /><br />This recording is of the first Sonatina in a set of six from Opus 36. It is in the key of C major and is a well-known work, especially for piano students.<br /><br />I chose to record this work on a whim, after receiving the suggestion to record some Clementi from a visitor on my <a href="http://www.facebook.com/pages/SignMyPianocom/102766077732">Facebook page</a> - <strong>thank you Thirdy for the suggestion</strong>! I enjoyed recording this piece and hope that you will enjoy listening to my interpretation of this work.<br /><br />You can download a copy of the selection as an MP3 or WMV by visiting my website, <a href="http://www.lisztonian.com/">lisztonian.com</a> or by subscribing to my <a href="http://phobos.apple.com/WebObjects/MZStore.woa/wa/viewPodcast?id=271127668">free iTunes podcast</a>. You may also use the embedded media player below (if available) to listen online.<br /><br /><script type="text/javascript" src="http://www.lisztonian.com/music/download/Sonatina+Op+36+No+1-107-slim.js"></script><br /><br />Enjoy!<br /><a href="http://www.facebook.com/signmypiano">Jeremiah Jones </a>Jeremiah Joneshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09108975640552659942noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3185857166904075035.post-3648643657619148532010-01-15T09:40:00.004-07:002010-01-15T10:00:55.183-07:00Serhiy Salov - Bachauer Concert Series<a href="http://www.topoftheworld.no/about/resultater/salov/rightParagraph/0/image/Serhiy%20Salov.jpg"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; FLOAT: left; CURSOR: hand" border="0" alt="" src="http://www.topoftheworld.no/about/resultater/salov/rightParagraph/0/image/Serhiy%20Salov.jpg" /></a> Last night I had a truly remarkable experience. I attended the Gina Bachauer concert series performance by Serhiy Salov. This was a unique experience because Serhiy performed his own transcription of Igor Stravinsky's famous Ballet - The Rite of Spring. In addition to this marvelous work, he performed a couple of pieces from Bach's <em>The Musical Offering</em>, Portions of Stravinsky's <em>Petrouchka</em> ballet, and a Chopin Nocturne (D-flat Op. 27 No. 2). For his encore piece her performed Brahm's Intermezzo 117.<br /><br />The evening was amazing. Serhiy had a miraculous way of bringing out and enhacing the beautiful melodies, bitonalities, and expressions that can be found in Stravinsky's music. In addition to this, it was a thrill just to watch Serhiy perform - to see his hands dance above the keys! In fact, prior to the commencement of the program I was contemplating the transcriptions and thought to myself that the only part of the ballet work that would be utterly missing from the transcription would be the ballet, the dance, itself! However, as Serhiy began to play and as I watched his fingers move so elegantly, yet powerfully, over the keyboard, I realized that the dance was certainly not lost in the transcription. I could hardly dare to blink, for fear that I would miss the subtle and beautiful choreography of Serhiy's hands on the piano.<br /><br />A truly amazing experience. Bravo Serhiy! Bravo!<br /><br /><a href="http://www.facebook.com/signmypiano">Jeremiah Jones</a>Jeremiah Joneshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09108975640552659942noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3185857166904075035.post-66759579027155165752009-12-22T09:21:00.002-07:002009-12-22T09:35:01.127-07:00Stephen Hough is Coming to Town!<del>Santa Claus</del> Stephen <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_0" class="blsp-spelling-error">Hough</span> is Coming to Town!<br /><br />I was just perusing the <a href="http://www.utahsymphony.org/">Utah Symphony Website</a> to look at upcoming performances and saw that Stephen <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_1" class="blsp-spelling-error">Hough</span>, one of today's most talented pianists, is coming to perform the Saint-Saëns piano concerto No. 5. I am <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_3" class="blsp-spelling-corrected">excitedly</span> waiting for the clock to strike "10:00AM" so that I can purchase my tickets.<br /><br />Words cannot adequately describe Stephen's level of artistry. You can visit his website <a href="http://www.stephenhough.com/">here</a>. One of my favorite albums of his is <a href="http://www.hyperion-records.co.uk/al.asp?al=HOUGH1">this one</a> - be sure to add it to your collection if you don't have it already.<br /><br />If you are going to be in the UT/USA area in May then be sure to purchase your tickets for his concert. Maybe I'll see you there!Jeremiah Joneshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09108975640552659942noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3185857166904075035.post-26742669561132692382009-12-18T21:21:00.003-07:002009-12-18T21:49:23.009-07:00Roku and Lisztonian - a Beautiful RelationshipHeard of <a href="http://www.roku.com/"><span id="SPELLING_ERROR_0" class="blsp-spelling-error">Roku</span></a>? They are the ingenious creators of a small device that allows people like me to watch their <a href="http://www.netflix.com/"><span id="SPELLING_ERROR_1" class="blsp-spelling-error">Netflix</span> </a>"Instant Queue" on my home theater system without buying an expensive gaming system or without hooking up an external computer. <strong>What does this have to do with my </strong><a href="http://www.lisztonian.com/"><strong><span id="SPELLING_ERROR_2" class="blsp-spelling-error">Lisztonian</span> </strong></a><strong>site</strong>? A while back I was contacted from a very kind member of <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_3" class="blsp-spelling-error">Roku's</span> team. He asked if they could use the music/<span id="SPELLING_ERROR_4" class="blsp-spelling-error">playlist</span> from my website in their developer's <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_5" class="blsp-spelling-error">SDK</span> (Software Development Kit). So far I have never turned anybody away when asked to use my music, so I gladly approved. Fast forward to today... I came home from work to find a <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_6" class="blsp-spelling-error">Fedex</span> box with a <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_7" class="blsp-spelling-error">Roku</span> player and a kind note from the <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_8" class="blsp-spelling-error">Roku</span> fellow. He thanked me for allowing them to use my music (royalty-free) and hooked me up with a device to try out. I wasted no time in setting it up and I am absolutely stunned at how easy and amazing this little box is! Now I can watch everything on my <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_9" class="blsp-spelling-error">Netflix</span> "Instant" list without having to sit in front of my little PC monitor (they also connect to other services like Amazon, Pandora, etc). It supports <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_10" class="blsp-spelling-error">HDMI</span>, Component, and Composite video and includes both wired and wireless network connectivity. It was a total <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_11" class="blsp-spelling-corrected">cinch</span> to set up and I had it running in literally minutes.<br /><br />So if any of you are developers, then you can download the Roku SDK and you just might come across my music :) and even if you are not a developer, you should definitely take a look at <a href="http://www.roku.com/">their website </a>and consider getting their product ;)Jeremiah Joneshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09108975640552659942noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3185857166904075035.post-12023071593521704792009-11-28T09:17:00.004-07:002009-12-01T16:08:35.070-07:00Bach's Goldberg Variations Var 1It has been more than a month since I released my last recording. Life has been busy with non-piano activities and so I've had almost no time over the last couple of months to practice the pieces that I am currently working on. I decided that to release something is better than nothing, so I dug up a recording of Bach's first variation in the set titled Goldberg Variations. The recording is a bit <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_0" class="blsp-spelling-corrected">embarrassing</span>, as it contains some obvious mistakes and some less-than-<span id="SPELLING_ERROR_1" class="blsp-spelling-corrected">desirable</span> musical "effects". One day I hope to replace it with a much better recording, but until then, this will have to do.<br /><br />For those of you who are not familiar with this work, it is a musical masterpiece that begins and ends with a simple and beautiful Aria. The inner pages are then filled with variations on the theme from the Aria using the rules of counterpoint that Bach so strictly followed. Bach explored many styles and types of music as he developed each variation and proved, yet again, that he truly was the greatest musical genius of his day and perhaps in the history of known music.<br /><br />One day I hope to take the time to study all of the variations so that I can make a complete recording of this great masterpiece. To listen to my recording of the first variation you can visit <a href="http://www.lisztonian.com/titles/Prelude+in+Bflat+Minor+Arranged+in+Major-105.html">this page of my website</a>, subscribe to my <a href="http://phobos.apple.com/WebObjects/MZStore.woa/wa/viewPodcast?id=271127668">free <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_2" class="blsp-spelling-error">iTunes</span> podcast</a>, or use the embedded media player found below.<br /><br /><script src="http://www.lisztonian.com/music/download/Goldberg+Variations+BWV+988+I-106-slim.js" type="text/javascript"></script>Jeremiah Joneshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09108975640552659942noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3185857166904075035.post-10935293722112514102009-10-20T00:06:00.003-06:002009-10-20T00:21:32.762-06:00The power of just 3 notes!There are 12 unique notes in a chromatic scale. What is the affect of changing just three of those in a piece of music? It can be the difference between night and day.<br /><br />Listen to a little of the following work by <a href="http://www.lisztonian.com/titles/Prelude+in+Bflat+Minor+BWV+867+The+WellTempered+Clavier+Vol+1-104.html">J.S. Bach - Prelude No. 22 in B-flat MINOR</a>:<br /><script type="text/javascript" src="http://www.lisztonian.com/music/download/Prelude+in+Bflat+Minor+BWV+867+The+WellTempered+Clavier+Vol+1-104-slim.js"></script><br /><br />Ask yourself, "how does this music make me feel and how does it affect my emotions?" Now listen to this SAME WORK arranged in the parallel major key. That may sound like fancy music lingo, but that simply means that as I played the piece I changed just three notes: A-flat became A-natural, D-flat became D-natural, and G-flat became G-natural. Now listen to this improvised arrangement and ask yourself the same question:<br /><script type="text/javascript" src="http://www.lisztonian.com/music/download/Prelude+in+Bflat+Minor+Arranged+in+Major-105-slim.js"></script><br /><br />So what is the power of changing just three notes in a key signature? If we could change just three negative characteristics within ourselves, would we see the same affect? Could we affect the world for good by doing just three good deeds in a week, maybe in a day? I believe the answer is a resounding "YES"!<br /><br />If you enjoy these recordings you may download them free from <a href="http://www.lisztonian.com/">my website</a> or through my <a href="http://phobos.apple.com/WebObjects/MZStore.woa/wa/viewPodcast?id=271127668"><span id="SPELLING_ERROR_0" class="blsp-spelling-error">iTunes</span> podcast</a>. Here is the direct link to this latest recording - <a href="http://www.lisztonian.com/titles/Prelude+in+Bflat+Minor+Arranged+in+Major-105.html">an improvised arrangement of J.S. Bach's Prelude in B-flat</a>.<br /><br />Enjoy!<br /><a href="http://www.facebook.com/signmypiano">Jeremiah Jones</a>Jeremiah Joneshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09108975640552659942noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3185857166904075035.post-9853533398586625222009-09-29T00:13:00.002-06:002009-09-29T00:18:06.227-06:00PianoMarvel by Rain - Please Vote!<a href="http://assets.max.adobe.com/images/awards/pianomarvel-002.jpg"></a>Some good friends of mine are finalists in the Adobe Max competition for building an educational tool that looks like a great resource for beginner through early intermediate pianists. You'll definitely want to look at this great advancement in the world of piano education. You can <a href="http://max.adobe.com/awards/finalists/">click here</a> to view the contestants - they are listed as "PianoMarvel by Rain" under the "Education" section. If you like what you see, then by all means please vote for "PianoMarvel by Rain"!<br /><div></div><br /><div>Good luck guys! I voted for you :)</div>Jeremiah Joneshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09108975640552659942noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3185857166904075035.post-64872036489711268872009-09-28T00:25:00.004-06:002009-09-28T00:38:35.824-06:002 MILLION Downloads! Celebrate with a little Bach<a href="http://www.lisztonian.com/">Lisztonian</a> reached over 2 MILLION downloads this evening! That means we're currently providing <a href="http://www.lisztonian.com/titles/">free classical piano music</a> to about 6,000 new people every day. If only I received a nickel for every download, then I'd already have <a href="http://www.lisztonian.com/donate/help-support-free-music.php">a new piano</a> by now :) !<br /><br />To celebrate this grand event I've decided to release another recording. This recording is <a href="http://www.lisztonian.com/titles/Prelude+in+Bflat+Minor+BWV+867+The+WellTempered+Clavier+Vol+1-104.html">Bach's Prelude No. 22 from The Well-Tempered Clavier Volume 1</a>. This prelude is in the unique key of B-flat Minor and is a fabulous piece to pull out once in a while and meditate to. It is highly introspective and evocative.<br /><br />You may download this recording to your computer by visiting <a href="http://www.lisztonian.com/titles/Prelude+in+Bflat+Minor+BWV+867+The+WellTempered+Clavier+Vol+1-104.html">this page of my website</a>. I also encourage you to <a href="http://phobos.apple.com/WebObjects/MZStore.woa/wa/viewPodcast?id=271127668">subscribe to my free podcast</a> so that you never miss a new release! You may also use the embedded media player found below to listen online.<br /><br /><script type="text/javascript" src="http://www.lisztonian.com/music/download/Prelude+in+Bflat+Minor+BWV+867+The+WellTempered+Clavier+Vol+1-104-slim.js"></script>Jeremiah Joneshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09108975640552659942noreply@blogger.com0