a Rag I wrote in September 2023 - Sunwoo Lim - Boothmore Petwald

Addressing Performance Challenges:

• Measure Review:

• Measures 12-14: Use slow practice techniques and dynamics to accentuate the syncopated rhythm. Implementing staccato practice may help ease hand transitions.

• Measures 25-28: Employ hands separately (R-hand for melody, L-hand for harmonic support) until comfort is achieved at slow speeds, then gradually combine.

Technique Development:

The piece not only engages with enjoyable melodies but helps reinforce various musical techniques, such as:

• Syncopation Awareness: Due to its rhythmic complexity, this piece serves as an excellent study for learning to navigate syncopated rhythms, particularly noticeable in measures 12 and 18.

• Hand Coordination and Independence: The interplay between the left-hand support and right-hand melody trains pianists to manage independent lines, which is essential for full repertoire skill development.

• Metronome Usage: Best utilized during challenging measures to maintain accuracy without rushing.

Detailed Analysis of "A Rag I Wrote in September 2023"

Unique Features:

"A Rag I Wrote in September 2023," composed by Sunwoo Lim in the key of G major and 2/4 time signature at a moderate tempo of 100 beats per minute, pairs traditional ragtime elements with contemporary tonal nuances. This composition unfolds as a delightful journey with significant recurring motifs and inventive chord progressions.

Form and Structure:

The piece exemplifies a classic ragtime structure, featuring alternating sections that repeatedly return to thematic material, contributing to a cohesive musical narrative. Specifically, the usage of I (G major), IV (C major), V (D major), and vi (E minor) chords at various stretches enhances the musical flavor, particularly evident in measures 3 to 10 where the chord progression moves fluidly through these harmonies.

Rhythmic Patterns:

The rhythmic framework uses a combination of quarter notes and eighth notes, producing a syncopated feel that's characteristic of ragtime music. In measures 12-14, we see an intriguing rhythm pattern, with alternating quarter notes and syncopated accents that showcase the playful spirit of the genre.

Melodic Motifs and Variations:

Throughout the piece, melodic motifs emerge distinctly, particularly in the right-hand part which can be identified as the main theme. For example, measures 1-3 feature a captivating series of ascending notes that deliver an engaging thematic statement. In contrast, the left-hand provides a steady bass line, reinforcing harmonic foundations while incorporating rhythmic complexity that complements the right-hand melody.

Dynamics and Articulations:

Dynamics play a crucial role in expressing the piece's playful nature. The composer includes accents on certain notes, particularly in the main theme, which helps to generate a lively character.

a Rag I wrote in September 2023

• Artist
  Sunwoo Lim
• Number of imitations
  132
• Genre
  Sunwoo Lim
• Key
  G
• Tempo
  100
• Pages
  -
• Notation
  Sunwoo Lim
• Compose
  Sunwoo Lim
• Introduction
  Detailed Analysis of "A Rag I Wrote in September 2023" Unique Features: "A Rag I Wrote in September 2023," composed by Sunwoo Lim in the key of G major and 2/4 time signature at a moderate tempo of 100 beats per minute, pairs traditional ragtime element