An Emotional Rollercoaster

by Karen Rowell

How are you feeling today? An Emotional Rollercoaster is a collection of intermediate pieces that allow students to explore the colouring of musical tone. Hand shape, dynamic level, and pedaling as well as attack release of the notes are all elements that are chosen based on the mood or colour to be portrayed. Take a moment to consider the last time you felt the emotion that the title portrays and then try to put it into your music. Change things up with technique and try playing your scales like you are frantic or content.

Consider performing a pair of very different emotions to acquire the skill sets needed for completely different styles. Perhaps you can make up your own composition about a different emotion. Have fun and explore.