Deconstructing the Piano: Beyond Finger Technique with Glenn Gould

Glenn Gould's seemingly paradoxical claim that finger technique is secondary to the core of musical expression.
Gould, a renowned and unconventional pianist, often emphasized the importance of intellectual understanding, structural clarity, and expressive intention over mere finger dexterity. Was he suggesting we abandon technique altogether? Certainly not. But he urged us to look beyond the mechanics of finger movements and focus on the deeper musical content.
This meetup will explore:

• The context of Gould's statement: Understanding Gould's philosophy and performance style.
• Beyond Finger Technique: What elements of piano playing are more important according to Gould? (e.g., articulation, voicing, pedaling, phrasing, rhythmic precision).
• The Role of the Brain: How does understanding music intellectually translate into physical execution?
• The Danger of Mechanical Practice: Discussing the pitfalls of rote memorization and purely technical exercises.
• Practical Applications: How can we apply Gould's principles to our own piano practice and performance?
• Open Discussion and Sharing: Bring your own interpretations of Gould's quote, personal experiences, and techniques for achieving musicality beyond finger dexterity.

Who should attend:

• Pianists of all levels, from beginners to experienced performers.
• Music teachers and students.
• Anyone interested in exploring the philosophy of music and the nature of performance.
• Anyone who is curious about Glenn Gould and his unique approach to the piano.