Lesson 11: Don’t Be Sad – Practice (Contemporary)

📗 What Will You Learn in This Lesson?

In this lesson, you’ll explore an extended version of ‘Don’t be Sad’, played in a contemporary style. This style often focuses on creating soundscapes rather than just clear melodies. Here, you’ll experience the best of both worlds: a clear, melodic theme and a middle part that creates an emotional soundscape with minimalist, repetitive notes and rhythms.

🤔 Why This Matters?

Think of this lesson as a ‘boss fight’ – a true test of all the skills and knowledge you’ve accumulated. This piece presents several challenges: it introduces new notes, offers varied finger positioning options, and demands a unique emotional expression, balancing tones of joy and melancholy. Successfully navigating this piece is your reward, providing you with a beautiful composition to proudly perform in front of your family and friends.

🎹 How to Make the Best Out of This Lesson and Practice Effectively:

Step 1: Start by practicing with one hand at a time. Focus on understanding and naming the new notes as you play them.
Step 2: Experiment with different finger positions to find what feels most comfortable and efficient for you.
Step 3: Play with both hands together at a slow, even tempo. Aim for near-perfection, ensuring smooth coordination between your hands.
Step 4: Use a metronome set to a comfortable slow tempo. Challenge yourself to play each 4-bar section of the piece three times in a row perfectly with the metronome.

🏆 How Do You Know You’re Ready to Move to the Next Lesson?

Level 1 (Basic): Play the piece 5 times, focusing on getting familiar with it.
Level 2 (Solid): Play the piece 5 times correctly, ensuring accuracy and consistency.
Level 3 (Pro): Aim to play the piece 2 times in a row without any errors, demonstrating your proficiency.

🚀 Fast Track Option: Minimal Requirement for Progress:

If you’re ready to advance more quickly, focus on playing the piece perfectly 3 times within a single practice session. Once you achieve this, you’re prepared to take on the next challenge in your musical journey.