September Second - Michel Petrucciani

The intricacies of the piece can pose challenges for pianists, particularly in executing the touch and expressiveness inherent in jazz music.

• Complex Chord Voicings: Measures 24-30 contain extended chord structures that may be difficult for intermediate players to navigate.

• Tempo and Rhythm: Maintaining a swift tempo while executing syncopated rhythms, especially in measures 15-20, requires careful coordination and practice.

• Dynamic Contrast: Achieving the necessary dynamic range from soft melodic passages to powerful phrases, particularly in the climax found in measures 50-55, can be demanding.

To effectively tackle the performance challenges in "September Second," the following strategies are advised:

• Rhythmic Exercises: Break down rhythmic patterns in measures 15-20 into smaller segments. Clap or play them separately before integrating them into the full melody.

• Dynamic Control: Use a keyboard dynamic practice, focusing on maintaining soft notes in the melodic lines whilst having strong accents in the accompaniment parts, especially in measures 50-55. This ensures the piece is expressive and engaging.

Sheet Music Analysis for "September Second" by Michel Petrucciani

"September Second," composed by the renowned French jazz pianist Michel Petrucciani, showcases unique elements that reflect the spirit of jazz. The piece is set in C Major with a 4/4 time signature and an energetic tempo of 162 BPM.

Key Features:

• Structure and Form: The composition exhibits a free-flowing structure, typical of jazz standards. It varies between lyrical melodies and rhythmic phrases, providing a balance of improvisatory freedom and thematic development.

• Chord Progressions: The use of various chord functions is apparent, particularly:

• Prominent I-IV-V relationships with secondary dominants, allowing for rich harmonic movement.

• Specific measures feature chromatic alterations, creating tension and resolution, which is a hallmark of jazz harmony.

• Rhythmic Patterns: Unique rhythmic motifs recur throughout the score, generating a delightful complexity. For instance, syncopated accents enhance the groove.

• Ornamentation: Decorative notes embellish the main thematic material, especially in sections where the melody emerges prominently. The use of grace notes and trills in measure 35 provides a jazzy embellishment that draws the listener's ear.

September Second

• Artist
  Michel Petrucciani
• Number of imitations:
  336
• Genre
  Michel Petrucciani
• Key
  C Major
• Tempo
  162
• Pages
  11
• Notation
  Michel Petrucciani
• Compose
  Michel Petrucciani
• Introduction
  September Second' - Michel Petrucciani, This music is undefined, arr. by Michel Petrucciani, Suitable for all students to learn