Writing's On The Wall - Sam Smith

This score presents several technical challenges, especially for intermediate to advanced pianists:

• Dynamic Control: The piece requires a sensitive touch to effectively express the nuances in dynamics, notably in the delicate phrases found in measures 8 and 15, where the performer must amplify or soften notes precisely to maintain the intended emotional impact.

• Leaps and Intervallic Precision: Leap intervals are frequent throughout the piece, particularly in bars 9-16 (e.g., A♭4-G4-F4), demanding accuracy and control during transitions. Pianists may struggle with landing accurately on the correct notes while maintaining evenness in sound.

• Voice Separation: Achieving clear separation between the left-hand (accompaniment) and right-hand (melody) is crucial for clarity, especially where rhythmic complexities occur (bars 25-32). The use of varying note values necessitates careful practice to ensure that the accompaniment supports rather than overshadows the melody.

To tackle these difficulties effectively, the following strategies are suggested:

• Dynamic Mapping: Create a roadmap of dynamic changes within the score, marking key areas that require more emphasis or greater sensitivity. This visual guide can serve as a reference during practice sessions, aiding in mastering expressive playing.

• Use of Partial Performance: For troublesome passages, consider isolating the melody while playing simplified versions of the accompaniment. This allows you to focus on achieving the correct tonal quality in the melody while gradually layering the accompaniment.

Conclusion:

The score for "Writing's On The Wall" offers a rich landscape of melodic and harmonic exploration. By approaching practice strategically and embracing the expressive nature of the piece, pianists can unlock the emotional depth embedded within the music. With diligence and the application of these recommended techniques, performers will not only navigate the technical challenges but also deliver a compelling performance reflective of the song's poignant message.

Detailed Analysis of "Writing's On The Wall" for Piano

The piece "Writing's On The Wall," composed by Sam Smith, is written in Ab Major and features a 4/4 time signature with a slow tempo of 66 BPM. Noteworthy attributes of this score include:

• Structural Complexity: The overall structure is presented in a verse format followed by a transitional bridge, leading into the chorus. This provides both familiarity and interest as it navigates through different thematic sections.

• Harmonic Progression: The harmonic sequence frequently utilizes the tonic (I), subdominant (IV), and dominant (V) chords, notably in sections like bars 1-4 where the progression moves from G5_F5_C5 to C5_C4_B♭4 highlighting the stability of the tonic and its movement towards cadences that effectively resolve.

• Melodic Lines: The melody predominantly resides in the treble clef, with many expressive leaps (particularly observed in measures 5-8) where the notes shift between octave ranges, creating a poignant emotional atmosphere.

• Use of Repetition: The repetition of motifs, especially in measures 9-17, strengthens the overall coherence, allowing listeners to connect more deeply with the melodic material as it returns.

Writing's On The Wall

• Artist
  Sam Smith
• Number of imitations:
  136
• Genre
  Sam Smith
• Key
  Ab
• Tempo
  66
• Pages
  2
• Notation
  Sam Smith
• Compose
  Sam Smith
• Introduction
  Writing's On The Wall' - Sam Smith, This music is undefined, arr. by Sam Smith, Suitable for all students to learn