Simple, but not simplistic
Sven Birch's pieces for the intermediate level complement the teaching material in their diversity and basic dance approach.
The books published by Breitkopf & Härtel in the series Pädagogik Eleven Easy Pieces bring together a colorful bouquet of appealing piano pieces for the intermediate level. The Danish pianist and conductor Sven Birch (*1960) succeeds in writing pieces which, for all their simplicity, are not simple and combine different musical and pianistic demands. The pieces offer a stylistic variety ranging from boogie and blues to tango and techno. There are also song-like, poetic pieces.
I consider this collection to be an ideal addition to the "classical" teaching material. The clear instructions on articulation and dynamics as well as the sparing fingering help to give the playing a clear profile and get to the heart of the basic dance feeling. I am impressed by the rhythmic subtleties and the opportunities offered to highlight various pianistic aspects in lessons. Seen in this light, the pieces are an ideal enrichment for working on sound culture at this level.
Sven Birch: 11 Easy Pieces for piano, ED 9378, € 16.50, Breitkopf & Härtel, Wiesbaden
