🎵 Notes from December 8 2024 meetup

We had an excellent session at the home of Françoise.  Alberta Clipper tried to ruin the party but arrived and left too soon, leaving us with a sunny afternoon.  We had 24 individual pieces played, and some were quite short.  The challenging piece by Lorraine was only about a minute, but still twice the length than if it were played at the designated tempo!  There were quite a few classics, and some Christmas favourites all of which had really good arrangements.  Several new composers were added to our list, plus others that are performed quite infrequently. 

Here's what was played: 

• Gregory: Elite Synchopations, by Scott Joplin
• Gordon: Waltz Op. 124 #4, by R. Schumann
• Gordon: Waltz Op. 39 #8, by P. Tchaikovsky
• Gordon: Waltz Lente Op. 33, by Oskar Merikanto
• Andrew: Prelude and Fugue in D major, by J. S. Bach
• Jean-Claude: Silent Night in the style of Rachmaninoff, by Derry Bertenshaw
• Dennis: Ave Maria, by Sygvaldi Kaladòns
• Françoise (piano) and Kevin (violin): Andantino, by Brian Crain
• Françoise: (piano and vocals) and Kevin (violin): Hallelujah, by Leonard Cohen
• David R: English Suite #3 Gavotte and Musette, by J. S. Bach
• Randy: Contredance in B flat major B. 17, by F. Chopin
• Kevin (violin) and Randy (piano): Spiegel im Spiegel, by Arvo Pärt
• Jocelyne: Moment Musical Op. 94 #6 D780, by F. Schubert
• Dave A: International Christmas Carols medley
• Natalie: Cuba from Suite Espanol, by Albéniz
• Lorraine: Prelude in D major Op. 34 #5, by D. Shostakovitch
• Mizuki: Have Yourself a Very Merry Christmas, by Hugh Martin
• Grace: Music from “Merry Christmas, Mr. Lawrence”, by Ryuichi Sakamoto
• Sachie: White Christmas, by Irving Berlin
• Sachie: Salut d’Amor, by Edward Elgar
• Dennis: Song of Gavin, by L. Einaudi
• Grace: Skating, by Vince Guaraldi
• Jean-Claude: Shephards at the Mange, by F. Liszt
• David R: Polovtsian Dance from Prince Igor, by Alexander Borodin (arr. Felix Blumenfeld), SoundCloud recording of David playing this piece is here

🎵 Notes from November 10 2024 meetup

We had a good size group at 10,000 Hours with our usual interesting assortment of pieces played. Among others, we enjoyed hearing the composer Sammy Fain a first for our group, and some “icy” music from Icelandic composer Ólafur Arnalds. 

Here’s what was played:

• Karin: Adagio, by J. S. Bach arr. Marcello
• Nick: Sonata #L7, by F. J. Haydn
• Dennis: Intermezzo Op. 118 #2, by J. Brahms
• Françoise (piano) and Kevin (violin): Solitary Hill, by Brian Crain
• David R: Recuerdos de la Alhambra, F. Tarrega arr. D. Center
• Natalie: Prelude and Fugue in D major BWV 874, by J. S. Bach
• Jocelyne: Sonata in F minor, by L. V. Beethoven
• Carolyn: Waltz in B minor Op. 69#2, by F. Chopin
• Paul: Mazurka in A minor Op. 7 #2, by F. Chopin
• Grace: Jazz Exercise #4, by Oscar Peterson
• Grace: Alice in Wonderland, by Sammy Fain
• Grace: Over the Rainbow, by Harold Arlen arr. by Shearing
• Mizuki: June Barcarolle, by P. Tchaikovsky
• Jeff: Preludes Op. 11 #10, Op. 11 #12, Op. 17 #3 and Op. 16 #2, by A. Scriabin
• Dennis: Saman, by Ólafur Arnalds
• David R: Hannah Grace Waltz/ Hope, by Maria Rose Rechner, SoundCloud recording of David playing these pieces is here and here
• Françoise (piano) and Kevin (violin): Crimson Sky, by Brian Crain
• Natalie: Sonata K457 1st movement, by W. A. Mozart

🎵 Notes from November 3 2024 meetup

A small group at Anne-Marie's enjoyed performing on a 1950s Steinway that was once played by Victor Borge.  It was all serious for us, though, with a mix of classics, contemporary and “lounge music", some new to our group.

Here's what was played:

• Gregory: Maple Leaf Rag, by Scott Joplin
• Gordon:  Etude #12 S136, by F. Liszt
• Gordon: Nocturne in B, by F. Liszt
• Nick: Sonata L6, by F. J. Haydn
• Andrew: Un lift pour Ville Émard, by André Gagnon
• Daniel: 1st 3 segments from “Pictures at an Exhibition”, by M. Moussorgsky
• Anne-Marie: Improvisation, by Gabriel Fauré
• Gregory: I’m in the Mood for Love, by Jimmy McHugh
• Gregory: Fly Me to the Moon, by Bart Howard
• Nick:  Minuet in F major HWV S20, by G. F. Handel
• Gordon: Impromptu Passioné, by C. Czerny
• Daniel: Moon River, by Henry Mancini
• Daniel: Pennies from Heaven, by Arthur Johnston
• Andrew: Comme au Premier Jour, by André Gagnon

🎵 Notes from October 19 2024 meetup

On a pleasant sunny day we had a good turnout and played on Ottawa Pianos' magnificent Felix CFX concert grand.  We welcomed new member Daniel to the group. There was an interesting variety of works played, Baroque to Modern, and from relatively simple (but good) to more challenging (and also good).  

Here's what was played:

• Gregory: Sérenade sur l’eau, by Jacques Ibert and Waltz in B minor, by Viktor Kossenko
• Jean-Claude: Notturno, by Ottorino Resphigi
• Tunde: Sonata in A minor 1st part, by W. A. Mozart
• Andrew: Humoreske part 1, by R. Schumann
• Françoise (piano) and Kevin (violin): Andante Affetuoso, by Brian Crain
• David R: Minuets in G major and G minor, by C. Petzold (formerly attributed to J. S. Bach)
• Jocelyn: Sonata in F major, by L. V. Beethoven
• Stéphanie: Reflections, by Dennis Alexander
• Karin: Voiles, by C. Debussy
• Dennis: La fille aux cheveux de lin, by C. Debussy
• Jennifer: Prelude in D major Op. 28, by S. Rachmaninoff
• Daniel: Solace: A Mexican Serenade, by Scott Joplin
• Françoise and Dennis (vocal/piano duet): Le secret, by Gabriel Fauré
• Jean-Claude: Jesu, Joy of Man’s Desiring, by J. S. Bach (arr. Myra Hess)
• Françoise (piano) and Kevin (violin): Time Forgotten, by Brian Crain
• David R: Polovtsian Dance from Prince Igor, by Alexander Borodin (arr. Felix Blumenfeld)

🎵 Notes from October 6 2024 meetup

We had a beautiful fall afternoon playing at Natalie’s on her Boston baby grand piano.  There was a good assortment of pieces, including one by Kurt Weil, a composer rarely played in our group. The work by Fauré was apropos given that it is the 100th anniversary of his death.  Lorraine mentioned that her piece had an excerpt from the French national anthem, which was banned at that time and place.  This lead to an interesting discussion about the influence of music, given that throughout history specific pieces and composers have been banned, and sometimes music altogether. 

Here’s what was played:

• Gregory: The Vagabond from Songs of Travel, by Ralph Vaughn Williams
• Jean-Claude: Barcarolle #1, by Gabriel Fauré
• Mary Lou:  Prelude from Three Piano Pieces, by Marjan Mozetich
• Martin: Piano Sonata #48 in C major, by F. J. Haydn
• Karin: Voiles (Prelude), by Claude Debussy
• Natalie: Sonata K457 in C minor 1st movement, by W. A. Mozart
• Paul and Emil (duet): Fantasie in F minor, by F. Schubert
• Jeff: Preludes Op. 11 #10, Op. 11 #12, Op. 17 #3 and Op. 16 #2, by A. Scriabin
• Lorraine: Viennese Carnival (part), by R. Schumann
• Gregory: Bumble Boogie, by Jack Fina
• Jean-Claude: Speak Low, by Kurt Weil
• Karin: Romance Op. 11 #1, by Clara Schumann
• Mary Lou: Nocturne in C# Minor Op. Posth, by F.  Chopin
• Natalie: Sonata K457 in C minor 2nd movement, by W. A. Mozart

🎵 Notes from September 14 2024 meetup

Even with the stellar September weather, there was a decent turnout at Steinway Gallery.  We had our last opportunity to perform on the splendid Hamburg Steinway concert grand piano that was formerly at the National Arts Centre.

Here’s what was played:

• Randy: Opus #17, by Dustin O’Halloran
• Françoise, Kevin (piano and violin duet): Rain, by Brian Crain
• Dennis: Album for the Young Op. 68 #30, by R. Schumann
• Jean-Claude: Ballet Music from Orfeo ed Euridice, by C. Gluck/W. Kempff arrangement
• David R: Mazurkas Op. 68 #2 in A minor and #3 in F major, by F. Chopin
• Mizuki: Nocturne #20 in C# minor, by F. Chopin
• Natalie: Nocturne in F Minor Op. 55 #1, by F. Chopin
• Andrew: Rigaudon, by J.P. Rameau
• Stephanie: Progrès Op. 100 #6, by J.F Burgmüller
• Jeff: Preludes Op. 11 #10, Op. 11 #12, Op. 17 #3 and Op. 16 #2, by A. Scriabin
• Jean-Claude: Summer’s Eve Op. 71 #2, by E. Grieg
• Dennis: Prelude Op. 11 #15, by A. Scriabin
• Andrew: Sonata in C major K. 159, by Scarlatti
• David R: Prelude in B minor, by J. S. Bach/ A. Siloti arrangement
• Natalie: Prelude in D Major BWV 874, by J.S. Bach
• Stephanie: Tarantella, by J.F Burgmüller

🎵 Notes from September 8 2024 meetup

The venue today was at Mitchell’s piano storage facility For the Love of Pianos (see paragraph below).  It was unusual but, as always, it is the music that matters.  We performed on a Yamaha baby grand that was about 30 years old and had apparently never been played before; we fixed that problem!  There was an eclectic mix of pieces, light on the classics, with a few new composers.  Mitchell performed one of his own compositions, and we encourage others to do this should the inspiration strike.

Here’s what was played:

• Gregory: Old Adam, by William Bolcom
• Dave A. and Karin (duet): In a Monastery Garden, by Albert Ketelby
• Christopher: Reverie, by C. Debussy
• Jeff: Preludes Op. 11 #10, Op. 11 #12, Op. 17 #3 and Op. 16 #2, by A. Scriabin
• Jocelyn: Sonata in F minor Op.  47 #2, by L. V. Beethoven
• Grace: Thème du Garçon, by Saint-Preux
• Mitchell: Romaria, by Renato Texeira
• Gregory: Song Without Words Op. 53 #3, by F. Mendelssohn
• Grace: Experience, by Ludovico Einaudi
• Mitchell: Sunrise, own composition
• Christopher: Reverie in F Minor, by Dennis Alexander
• Dave A: German Dance #1, by L. V. Beethoven 

Mitchell has provided some information about his company:

“For The Love Of Pianos is a technician driven company serving piano owners, along with private market piano buyers and sellers, in the Greater Ottawa-Gatineau Metropolitan Area. We focus on providing excellent quality products and services that enhance the musical experience for owners of pianos, as well as supporting the promotion and growth of the acoustic piano in our local market.  Visit our website for more information, and to join our mailing list: https://loveofpianos.ca/”

🎵 Notes from August 17 2024 meetup

We had a good turnout at Ottawa Pianos, proving that music making need not stop in the summer. We welcomed new member Stéphanie.  Two duets were included in the lineup.  We so far have not heard a brass instrument in a duet, so check your contacts for someone!  Other pieces had our usual mix of contemporary to Baroque. 

Here’s what was played:

• Gregory: Magnetic Rag, by Scott Joplin
• Dave/Karin (two piano duet): 6 Studies in Canon Form Op. 56 #2, by R. Schumann
• Françoise (piano) and Kevin (violin): Andantino, by Brian Crain
• Jeff: Preludes Op. 11 #12, Op. 17 #3 and Op. 11 #10, by A.  Scriabin
• David R: Hannah Grace Waltz, by Maria Rose Rechner
• Natalie: Prelude Op. 874, by J. S. Bach
• Jocelyne: Moment Musical Op. 95 (D780 #6), by F. Schubert
• Grace: Love Ballade, by Oscar Peterson
• Stéphanie: Innocence, by Friedrich Burgmüller
• Grace: Over the Rainbow, by Harold Arlen, arr. by George Shearing
• Natalie: Nocturne Op. 55 #1, by F. Chopin
• Jeff: Prelude Op. 16 #2, by A.  Scriabin
• David R: Valse Op. 64 #2, by F. Chopin
• Dave A: Prelude in D flat Major, by Reinhold Gliere
• Karin: Romance, by Clara Schumann

🎵 Notes from July 21 2024 meetup

We had a good turnout on a sunny Sunday in July, proving that our interest in the piano is alive and well in all months!  We had a good assortment of pieces from traditional to old to modern. Composer Jason Sifford has not been performed for our group before.

Here's what was played:

• Martin: French Suite #4 in E flat major, by J.S. Bach
• Jeff: Etude Tableau, Opus 33 No.# 5, by S. Rachmaninoff
• Kathy: Prelude and Fugue in B major, by J.S. Bach
• Mary Lou: Prelude, by Marjan Mozetich
• Perry: Liebestraum #3, by F. Liszt
• Christopher: Reverie, by C. Debussy
• Paul and Emil: Valse Lente, by Mel Bonis
• Lyndsay: Nobody knows the trouble I've seen, traditional arranged by Florence Price
• Lorraine: Rialto Ripples, by G. Gershwin
• Mary Lou: Impromptu in G flat major, Opus 9 #3, by F. Schubert
• Kathy: Arietta, Opus 12, #1, by E. Grieg
• Paul: Romance sans paroles, by G. Faure
• Jeff: Aux cypres de la ville d’este #1, by F. Liszt
• Lyndsay: Incognito (Jazz Nocturne), by Jason Sifford
• Lorraine: Prelude in C major, by J.S. Bach

🎵 Notes from July 7 2024 meetup

As expected, our July turnout at Grace's was a bit lower, but we had fun nonetheless and there were a few lighter “summer” pieces as well as a good assortment of others. Composers Sakamoto and Mozetich are new to our ever growing roster of composers performed.

Here's what was played:

• Gregory: Fly Me to the Moon, by Bart Howard
• Jeff: Etude Tableaux, by S. Rachmaninoff
• Grace: 20220302-Sarabande, by Ryuichi Sakamoto
• Jocelyne: Etude in A Major, by Carl Czerny
• Hedda: Misty, by Erroll Garner
• Mary Lou: Prelude from Three Pieces for Piano, by Marjan Mozetich
• Natalie: Nocturne Op. 55 #1, by F. Chopin
• Perry: Scherzo #2, by F. Chopin
• Gregory: I’m in the Mood for Love, by Jimmy McHugh
• Hedda: Georgia on My Mind, by Hoagy Carmichael
• Jeff: Preludes Op. 11 #2, 17 #3 and 11 #10, by A. Scriabin
• Mary Lou: Rondo in A minor, by W. A. Mozart
• Natalie: Mazurka Op. 17 #4, by F. Chopin
• Grace: Root Beer Rag, by William Joel

🎵 Notes from June 15 2024 meetup

There was a full house at Steinway Gallery, and we wish to remind the group of all the support that Jennifer Messer has provided to our group over the past number of years.  We welcomed new member Monica.  There is a continuing trend for ensembles, with three this time.  In addition to many of our favorite well-known composers, we heard works for the first time by de Abreu and Westenra.  Incidentally, de Abreu is Brazilian, and the rousing piece played today is part of an encouraging shift to more works by composers from Latin America.  

Here’s what played:

• Gregory: Elite Syncopations, by Scott Joplin
• Karin: Song Without Words Op. 19 No. 2, by Felix Mendelssohn
• Christopher: Reverie in F minor, by Dennis Alexander
• Perry and Andrew (two piano duet): Braziliera from Scaramouche Suite, by Darius Milhaud
• David R: Prelude in B minor, by J. S. Bach, transcribed by Alexander Siloti, SoundCloud recording of David playing this piece is here
• Monica: Os Pintinhos no terreiro Zequina, by de Abreu
• Natalie: Mazurka Op. 17 #4, by F. Chopin
• Mary Lou: Rondo in A Minor, by W. A. Mozart
• Hedda: Intermezzo No. 1, by Manuel Ponce
• Dennis: Song of the Pilgrim, by F. Mendelssohn
• Grace: Experience, by Ludovico Einaudi
• Françoise (piano and vocals) and Kevin (violin): Faun, by Olafur Arnalds
• Françoise (vocal), Dennis (piano) and Kevin (violin): Dark Waltz, by Hayley Westenra
• Jeff: Aux Cypres de la villa d’este No. 1, by Franz Liszt
• Mizuki: Polonaise Op. 26 #1, by F. Chopin
• Lorraine: Sonata Op. 78 #24, by L. V. Beethoven
• Perry: June (from The Seasons), by P. Tchaikovsky
• Grace: Three Preludes, by George Gershwin

🎵 Notes from June 2 2024 meetup

We had an opportunity to perform at Hedda’s on her Kawai grand piano.  One interesting occurrence and a first, was that two different pieces were played twice by different performers. Great minds think alike!  Another first was a piano/violin duet by Arvo Pärt, who is not typically known for piano works.  Also unusual were two works by Liszt, one of his later pieces and one from his youth.  A mixture of older and modern works rounded out the session.

Here's what was played:

• Gordon: Farewell (Abscheid) S251, by F. Liszt
• Hedda: Intermezzo in A minor, by Manuel Ponce
• Karin: Imaginary Landscapes, by Laurens van Rooyen
• Natalie: Polonaise Op. 26 #1, by F. Chopin
• Christopher: Intermezzo op. 118  #2, by J. Brahms
• Randy (piano) and Kevin (violin): Spiegel im Spiegel, by Arvo Pärt
• Anne-Marie: Intermezzo op. 118  #2, by J. Brahms
• Mizuki: Polonaise Op. 26 #1, by F. Chopin
• Gordon: Etude #12 S136, by F. Liszt
• Hedda: Boogie Prelude, by William Gillock
• Anne-Marie: Stairway to Paradise, by G. Gershwin
• Natalie: Granada from Suite Espaňol, by I. Albeniz
• Mizuki: Prelude in E mia fille aunor, by F. Chopin
• Karin: La Fille aux Cheveux de Lin, by C. Debussy

🎵 Notes from May 18 2024 meetup

At Ottawa Pianos, we welcomed new member Mizuki, and violinist Kevin who was part of our first ever trio.  This trend for ensembles is encouraged, and we only need one more instrument to create a mini orchestra!  In addition to our old favorite composers, there also appears to be a favourable trend to more performances of contemporary composers.

Here’s what was played:

• Gregory: Songs Without Words Op. 53 #3, by F. Mendelssohn
• Perry: Scherzo #2, by F. Chopin
• Jean-Claude: Sonata Op. #1 3rd mov, by L. V. Beethoven
• Françoise (vocals), Dennis (piano) and Kevin (violin): Almost Everything I Need,  by Georgia Stitt
• Dennis (piano) and Kevin (violin): Prelude in C major/Ave Maria, by J. S. Bach/Gounod
• David R:  Three solos for Yuja (from Hunger Games), by  James Newton Howard, SoundCloud recording of David performing this piece is here
• Jocelyne: Reverie in F Minor, by Dennis Alexander
• Christopher: Contemplation, by young Ottawa composer Maria Rose Rechner
• Paul: Romances sans paroles #3, by G. Fauré
• Randy: A Song for Yvonne, by G. Holst
• Dave A: Meditation from Thais, by Jules Massenet
• Mizuki: Nocturne Op. 9 #2, by F. Chopin
• David R: Vampire, by Olivia Rodrigo
• Jean-Claude: Sunset, Op. 46 #2, by Alfred Tofft
• Dennis: Prelude in B minor, by J. S. Bach/ Siloti
• Françoise: The Nomad, by Janette Mason and James Thompson
• Mizuki: Claire de Lune, by C. Debussy
• Randy: Small Memories, by Jon Hopkins

🎵 Notes from May 5 2024 meetup

A pleasant way to spend a rainy Sunday afternoon.  David introduced his Yamaha Disklavier Pro with a demo of Sarah McLachlan singing and acoustically performing her own accompaniment on his piano.  There were two serious works by Carl Czerny that most of the participants had not heard before. 

Here's what was played:

• Gordon: Etude Mélodieuse Op. 795 #3, by C. Czerny
• Perry: Scherzo #2, by F. Chopin
• Dennis (piano) and Françoise (vocals): Meaning, by Cascadeur
• Dennis: Andante from Violin Sonata in A minor, by J. S. Bach/Siloti transcription
• David A: Burn Out Fugue, by Alexandra Stréliski
• David R: Mazurka in A Minor Op. 68 #2, by F. Chopin
• Martin: French Suite #4 in E flat major (entire work), by J. S. Bach
• Françoise (vocals) and Karin (piano): Les Angélus, by C. Debussy
• Karin: Romance Op. 11 #1, by Clara Schumann
• Natalie: Piano Sonata Op. 28 1st mov, by L. V. Beethoven
• Jeff: Aux cyprès de la villa d'este #1, by F. Liszt
• Nick: Sonata L5 in G major, F. J. Haydn
• Mary Lou: Sonatina in G Minor 2nd mov, by C. Guastavino
• Gordon: Impromptu Passionné Op. 754 #6, by C. Czerny
• Natalie: Piano Sonata Op. 28 2nd mov, by L. V. Beethoven
• David R: Valse Op. 64 #2, by F. Chopin
• David R: Etude in D minor Op. 82 #65, by Cornelius Gurlitt paired with Sofelgia in D major, by J. C. F. Bach

🎵 Notes from April 20 2024 meetup

We had another large session today at Ottawa Pianos, and welcomed new member Emil.  There is an emerging trend to have more ensembles. In addition to two vocal/piano works, we had one piano 4-hands, two pianos 4-hands, and one piano six-hands.  There is also a trend to more contemporary works, and this is certainly to be encouraged.  Rest assured that the classics will always be treasured: J.S. Bach was featured four times today.

Here’s what was played:

• Gregory: Toccata in D minor by J. S. Bach
• Jean-Claude: Sonata Op. 14 #1 (2nd movement), by L. V. Beethoven
• Martin: Bohemian Rhapsody, by Freddie Mercury
• Mary Lou: Nocturne in C# minor, by F. Chopin (+ poem below)
• Randy (piano) and Françoise (vocals): Sous la pluie, by Juliette Armanet
• David R: Valse Op. 64 #2, by F. Chopin, SoundCloud recording of David playing this piece is here
• Françoise (vocals) and Dennis (piano): The Edge of the Field, by Emily Hall
• Dennis: Song Without Words Op. 85 #4, by F. Mendelssohn
• Jocelyn: Prelude, by Barbara Arens
• Karin: Romance Op. 11 #1, by Clara Schumann
• Jeff: Aux cyprès de la villa d'este #1, by F. Liszt
• Perry and Andrew (two pianos): Scaramouche - Brazileira, by Darius Milhaud
• Hedda: Polonaise in E major, from the French Suite #6, by J. S. Bach
• Christopher: For December, by V. Polett
• Jenny: Prelude and Fugue in A flat Major, Book 1, by J. S. Bach
• Paul and Emil (piano 4-hands duet): Ballabile from Suite en forme de valses Op. 35, by Melanie Bonis
• Randy: No Holly for Miss Quinn, by Enya
• Jean-Claude: Brompton Square Waltz, by Daniel Edwards
• Mary Lou: Intermezzo Op. 118 #2, by J. Brahms
• Dennis: K32 by D. Scarlatti, and Saman, by Ōlafur Arnalds
• David, Karin and Randy (one piano 6-hands), Romance, by S. Rachmaninoff
• Jenny: French Suite 4 - Allemande, by J. S. Bach

🎵 Notes from April 7 2024 meetup

We welcomed new members Dennis and Paul at the home of Françoise.  There was a full house in a great setting, playing on a “Red Pops” Steinway Piano.  While we aren’t sure what brought out one of our largest if not the largest crowd, all of us enjoyed the variety of music from award winning contemporary film music to Bach.  Two Icelandic composers were performed, and four duets rounded out the afternoon. 

Here’s what was played:

• Gregory: Gladiolus Rag, by Scott Joplin
• Hedda: Intermezzo #1, by Manuel Ponce
• Karin: Romance Op. 11 #1, by Clara Schumann
• Randy (piano) and Françoise (vocals): What Was I Made For?, by Billie Eilish
• Christopher: Intermezzo Op. 118 #2, by J. Brahms
• Andrew: Aufschwung (Soaring), by Robert Schumann
• Dennis (piano) and Françoise (vocals): Kindling Oak, by Emily Hall
• Dennis: Ave Maria, by Sygvaldi Kaldalòns
• David R: Three Solos for Yuja (from Hunger Games), by James Newton Howard
• Jeff: Aux cyprès de la villa d'este #1, by Franz Liszt
• Mary Lou: Rondo in A minor KV 511, by W. A. Mozart
• Dave A: Les Barricades Mystérieuses, by F. Couperin
• Martin: Chaconne in G major, by G. F. Handel
• Françoise: Happiness Does Not Wait, by Ōlafur Arnalds
• Jean-Claude: Sonata Op. 14 #1 (first movement), by L. V. Beethoven
• Gordon: Preludes Op 11 #5 and Op 13 #5, by A. Scriabin
• Lorraine: Prelude BWV 852 in C#, by J. S. Bach
• Randy and Paul (Piano Duet): Sonatina, by György Ligeti
• Nick: Sonata L4, by F. J. Haydn
• Grace: Etude 16, by Phillip Glass
• Natalie: Polonaise Op. 26 #1, by F. Chopin
• Dave A and Karin (two Piano duet): Lonely Talk, by Arletta O’Hearn

🎵 Notes from March 16 2024 meetup

We had another excellent session at 10,000 Hours Piano Rehearsal Studios, including new or rarely played composers and both Schumanns.  A number of pieces were performed from memory, and this brought up a discussion where we generally agreed that while this is nice to do if you can, the pieces will unfortunately fade if not maintained!  We welcomed Yoonha to our group. 

Here’s what was played:

• Gregory: Prelude in D #4 of 6 Short Preludes, by J. S. Bach; Von Fremden Landern und Menschen, by R. Schumann; Waltz in A flat op. 39 #15, by J. Brahms
• Grace: Life on Mars, by David Bowie arr. by  R. Wakeman
• David R: Mazurka in A minor Op. 68 #2, by F. Chopin
• Perry: Nocturne Op. 48 #1, by F. Chopin
• Mary Lou: Impromptu in G flat, by F. Schubert
• Karin and Dave A. (duet): I’ll Wait for You, by Martha Meir
• Wesley: Milonga del Angèl, by Astor Piazzola
• Yoonha: Piano Sonata #7 K309, by W. A. Mozart
• Natalie: Piano Sonata Op. 28 1st mov, by L. V. Beethoven
• Gregory: Serenade, by Franz Schubert
• Dave A: Hymn to Freedom, by Oscar Peterson
• Wesley: Pink, by Robert Starer
• David R: 1ere Gymnopédie, by Erik Satie, SoundCloud recording of David playing this piece is here
• Mary Lou: Rondo in A minor, by W. A. Mozart
• Karin: Romance Op. 11 #1 (part), by Clara Schumann
• Grace: Asturias (Leyenda), by I. Albeniz
• Natalie: Piano Sonata Op. 28 2nd mov, by L. V. Beethoven

🎵 Notes from March 3 2024 meetup

The session at Anne-Marie's was most enjoyable, on a vintage Steinway. 

Here's what was played:

• Karin: Vocalise (short version), by S. Rachmanoff
• Mary Lou: Dances 1 & 2 Op. 2, by Alberto Ginastera, prefaced by poem The Instrument by Robert Winner
• Natalie: Granada from Suite Espanola, by I. Albeniz
• Anne-Marie: Pathetique Sonata 2nd mov., by L. V. Beethoven
• David R: Prelude in E minor and Mazurka in F major, by F. Chopin
• Christopher: Temple White, by L. Einaudi
• Nick: Sonata #2, by F. J. Haydn
• Jean-Claude: Once Upon a Time Op. 72 #1, by E. Grieg
• Françoise: Moonrise, by Michele McLaughlin
• Karin: Romance Op. 11 #1 (part), by Clara Schumann
• Mary Lou: Impromptu in G flat major Op. 90 #3, by F. Schubert
• Natalie: Sonata Op. 28 1st mov. (part), by L. V. Beethoven
• Anne-Marie: Intermezzo Op. 118 #2, by J. Brahms
• Jean-Claude: Pièce Romantique Op. 9 #1, by Cecile Chaminade
• David: Largo from New World Symphony, by A. Dvorak, SoundCloud recording of David playing this piece is here
• Françoise: Departure (Lullaby), by Max Richter
• Christopher: Homebound, by Ola Gejeillo
• Nick: Sonata #3, by F. J. Haydn

Mary Lou sent this information which is of general interest as it is also a playing opportunity:
“The Conservatoire de Musique de Gatineau (430 Alexandre-Taché Blvd) is hosting its Annual Festival de Piano from Friday, March 22 through Sunday March 24th. The concert programs for Friday and Saturday nights are still being finalized, but the artists will include the classical/jazz fusion artist Matt Herskowitz, along with Quebec pianists Jeanne Amiele Lusignan, and Carmen Picard. There's also an open invitation to play in the "Concert of 100 Pianists" on Sunday, where pianists of every age and level get a chance to play a piece on the wonderful Steinway Concert Grand (individually, of course)! ”

🎵 Notes from February 17 2024 meetup

We had an excellent session at Jennifer Messer’s 10,000 Hours Piano Rehearsal Studios and received a very warm welcome from manager Mackenzie. The main performance area has room for 65, so we could almost accommodate the entire group!  In addition to many of the classics, we had some ballet/opera transcriptions (no singing unfortunately) and several more recent works. 

Here’s what was played:

• Gregory: Grateful Ghost Rag, by William Bolcom
• Jean-Claude: Ballet music from Orfeo & Euridice, by Christoph Gluck (arr. by Wilhelm Kempff)
• Jeff: Aux Cyprès de la villa d’este, by F. Liszt
• Mary Lou: Sonatina in G minor 1st mov., by C. Guastavino
• Karin: Little Prayer to Jesus, by Gabriel Groulez
• David R: Prelude Op. 28 #15 (Raindrop), by F. Chopin, SoundCloud recording of David playing this piece is here
• Andrew: Invention in B flat, by J. S. Bach
• Jocelyne: Etude in A major, by C. Czerny
• Natalie: Prelude and Fugue BWV 875, by J. S. Bach
• Randy: Melodie Op. 68 #1, by R. Schumann
• Lorraine: Prelude BWV 848, by J. S. Bach
• Martin: Didn’t we almost have it all, by Michael Massner
• Wesley: Polonaise Op. 26 #1, by F. Chopin
• Gregory: Bumble Boogie, by Jack Fina (arr. of R. Korsakov Flight of the Bumblebee)
• Jean-Claude: Méditation from Thaïs, by J. Massenet
• Mary Lou: Impromptu Op. 90 #3, by F. Schubert
• Jeff: Preludes Op. 11 #2, Op. 17 #3 and Op. 18 #10, by A. Scriabin
• Karin: Vocalise, by S. Rachmaninoff (arr. by Paul Baston)
• David: Traumerei, by R. Schumann, SoundCloud recording of David playing this piece is here
• Andrew: Short Prelude #3, by J. S. Bach
• Wesley: Adagissimo, by J. S. Bach
• Natalie: Sonata in E flat major 2nd movement, by F. Schubert

🎵 Notes from February 4 2024 meetup

We had an excellent session at Kunhwa's, longer than usual, with extended works and different pieces, some modern and some old, including one of the “other” Bachs.  Her piano is tuned to the European standard of 442 Hz.  Kunhwa is preparing for her recital and at the end we were treated to a virtuosic performance of Chopin’s Ballade No. 1.  

Here’s what was played:

• Gregory: Solace, by Scott Joplin
• Martin: Passacaglia, by G. F. Handel
• Karin: Prelude #4, by C. Debussy
• Natalie: Sonata in E flat major 1st mov, by F. Schubert
• Jeff: Aux Cypres de la villa d’este, by F. Liszt
• Wesley: Piano Sonata #8 2nd and 3rd mov, by L. V. Beethoven
• David: Fantasie Impromptu middle section, by F. Chopin
• Kathy: Sonatas K32 and K9, by D. Scarlatti
• Kunhwa: Barcarolle Op. 65 #5, by C. V. Alkan
• Gregory: Great Crush Collision March, by Scott Joplin
• Martin: James Bond theme by Monty Norman; theme song to Goldfinger by John Barry; and theme song to Live and Let Die by Paul McCartney
• Wesley: Adagio in F minor, by Joseph Bologne (Chevalier de St. Georges)
• Natalie: Prelude & Fugue  BWV 875, by J. S Bach
• Jeff: Preludes Op. 11 #2, Op. 17 #3 and Op. 18 #10, by A. Scriabin
• Karin: Prelude in G flat major, by A. Scriabin
• David: Solfeggio in D major, by J. F. C. Bach
• Kunhwa: Ballade No. 1 Op. 23, by F. Chopin

On another musical note, Lorraine sent in an interesting and very relevant tidbit that gives us another reason to keep playing the piano (and makes us glad that we started):

“Fyi, I received this through one of the listservs I am on related to cognition. It is a larger scale study supporting the positive impact of playing a musical instrument on different aspects of cognition (working memory for example). Findings comment on the value of this in "older adults" as well - in summary, we should keep playing!
 https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/gps.6061”

🎵 Notes from January 20 2024 meetup

A moderately sized group enjoyed playing on Felix, Yamaha’s best concert grand at Ottawa Pianos.  We welcomed new members Julia and Martin.  There were some well-known favorites, some new composers for our list, and some arrangements to round out the afternoon.

Here’s what was played:

• Gregory: Weeping Willow, by Scott Joplin
• Karin: Prelude #4, by C. Debussy
• Mary Lou: Sonatina in G minor 1st movement, by Carlos Guastavino
• Jean-Claude: Song Without Words Op. 85 #1, by F. Mendelssohn
• Dave: 2nd Piano Concerto 3rd movement, by S. Rachmaninoff arranged by William Stickles
• Françoise: Pastel Garden, by Brian Crain
• Jocelyn: Sonata in G major 1st movement, by W. A. Mozart
• Jeff: Aux Cypres de la villa d’est #1, by F. Liszt
• Julie: Arabesque No. 1, by C. Debussy
• Julia: Where’s Hiccup, by John Powell arr. by Sebastian Wolff
• Jeff: Etude Tableau Op. 33 #5, by S. Rachmaninoff
• Jean-Claude: Morgen, by Richard Strauss arr. by Max Reger
• Mary Lou: Rondo in A minor KV 511, by W. A. Mozart
• Julie: Clair de lune, by C. Debussy
• Françoise: Dancing with the Wind, by Michele McLaughlin

🎵 Notes from January 7 2024 meetup

We had a good session at Lyndsay’s.  Her studio is very well set up and some of us old-timers might have wished that our first lessons had been in such a place!  Musical education has come a long way.  Our usual good assortment of music was played, some challenging and from memory!  So pianists, don’t be afraid to stretch your limits. 

Here’s what was played:

• Gregory: The Eternal Feminine, by William Bolcom
• Mary Lou: Rondo in A minor KV 511, by W. A. Mozart
• Karin: Sad Bird, by Federico Momposa
• Natalie: Sonata in E flat major, by F. Schubert
• Lyndsay: Daydream, by Catherine Rollin
• Jeff: Etude Tableau Op. 33 #5, by S. Rachmaninoff
• Perry: Etude Op. 10 #1, by F. Chopin
• Wesley: Prelude Op 28 No. 15 (Raindrop), by F. Chopin
• Allona: Bagatelle #3, by L. V Beethoven
• Mary Lou: Intermezzo Op. 118 #2, by J. Brahms
• Karin: La fille aux cheveux de lin, by C. Debussy
• Perry: Arabesque #1, by C. Debussy
• Wesley: Waltz Op. 69 #1, by F. Chopin
• Allona: Adagio in F minor, by Joseph Bologne
• Jeff: Preludes Op. 11 #2, Op. 17 #3 and Op. 11 #10, by A. Scriabin
• Natalie: Waltz Op. 18 (Grande Valse), by F. Chopin
• Lyndsay: Rippling Spring Waltz, by Estelle D. Ricketts