If The World Was Ending - JP Saxe/Julia Michaels

The piece presents several performance challenges requiring careful technique:

• Rapid Note Transitions: In measures where the right hand plays fast passages such as E♭4-E♭4-E♭4 (e.g., the sections towards the end), the quick transitions may pose a challenge for even intermediate players.

• Dynamic Control: Achieving the delicate balance of soft and loud dynamics, especially at emotional climaxes, can be quite difficult (see [G♭4] and [A♭4] in measures where intensity builds).

• Pedal Technique: Effective use of the pedal is crucial to connect the melodic lines smoothly while avoiding blurriness. Players may find specific measures, like those with clusters of chords in the left hand (e.g., {D♭3, G♭3, B♭3}), require precise pedaling for clarity.

To maximize learning and performance outcomes, focused practice on challenging sections is essential:

• Dynamic Exercises: Identify phrases that require dynamic contrast, such as [F4, E♭4] and {E♭4} resting against sustained bass notes in the left hand.

• Chord Transitions: For left hand passages, like those requiring smooth transitions between chords (e.g., (D♭3-.F3-.A♭3-)), practice shifting smoothly by keeping the fingers close to the keys.

• Suggested Exercise: Isolate left-hand chords, repeating until the transitions feel seamless and confident.

By approaching "If The World Was Ending" with these methods, players can develop greater technical proficiency while deeply engaging with the piece's emotional depth. Enjoy the journey as you bring this heartfelt composition to life!

1. Music Analysis

"If The World Was Ending" presents a poignant exploration of emotional themes through its unique musical structure and harmonic progressions. The piece is composed in D♭ Minor and is set in a 12/16 time signature, giving it a fluid, flowing feel that complements the lyrical content. The tempo of 114 BPM facilitates a contemplative pace, inviting the player to imbue each note with emotional weight.

Harmonic Structure: The song predominantly utilizes the following harmonic progression:

• I (D♭ minor)
• IV (G♭ major)
• V (A♭ major) This progression allows for an expressive narrative arc, particularly in sections where the harmony shifts between minor and major chords, highlighting moments of tension and resolution.

Melodic Lines: The right hand features the primary melodic line, characterized by a range that spans from E♭4 to G♭5, with graceful leaps and stepwise motion. Particularly notable are measures where the melody reaches a pinnacle (e.g., measures like [E♭5] and the sequences involving [D♭5], which emphasizes key emotional moments).

Rhythm Patterns: The rhythmic patterns throughout the piece vary, with common motifs featuring syncopated quarter notes interspersed among sustained notes. This rhythmical variation enhances the lyrical delivery and captures the interplay of longing and reflection inherent in the song's message.

If The World Was Ending

• Artist
  JP Saxe/Julia Michaels
• Number of imitations:
  191
• Genre
  JP Saxe/Julia Michaels
• Key
  db
• Tempo
  114
• Pages
  5
• Notation
  JP Saxe/Julia Michaels
• Compose
  JP Saxe Julia Michaels
• Introduction
  If The World Was Ending' - JP Saxe Julia Michaels, This music is undefined, arr. by JP Saxe/Julia Michaels, Suitable for all students to learn