Most of the time, I teach my piano students. Yet, sometimes, they have something to teach me.
One of my new students had taught herself to play a few compositions by watching You Tube. I was impressed, but I’m a big believer in learning how to read music if you are going to play the piano. Then, you can play anything.
So, I went and found the sheet music for her pieces, and then continued to look through and find some compositions.
I came across this particular piece of music and I fell in love with it. It’s a composition called “River Flow in You.” It’s by a composer/pianist named Yiruma. I think the reason I like it so much is because it is sad and happy, all at the same time. It appears happy on the surface, but if you listen closely and really pay attention, you realize that there is also a certain sadness to the piece. Not everyone will pick up on it. Kind of like a person who walks around with a happy face for the world to see, but inside, is feeling despair.
It’s not my usual fare. I’m a lover of accidentals and minor keys. I like music that is unpredictable and that makes you gasp from the surprises it holds. But this one held me.
So, if you have 3 minutes and 58 seconds, give it a listen. I’d record myself playing it for you, but I just got the music and it’s not quite “performance ready” yet. 🙂
Enjoy!
Hi Amy,
What a beautiful piece. I started to listen to some of his other music and it all has that poignant kind of feel to it. Do you think he added some kind of bell like things to those few strings to make the jingly noise? I’ve never heard of that before.
Thanks for my morning pick me up.
Julie
Comment by julie ramseyer — November 4, 2009 @ 7:48 am |
Julie,
I’m not sure what he uses for that effect, but it is definitely evocative! I’m enjoying going through his videos and listening, as well. My student has decided she wants to focus on his work for awhile. As long as it inspires her to practice, it’s fine with me!
Comment by abozza — November 4, 2009 @ 3:46 pm |
What a surprise! I didn’t expect the music to be so beautiful. Thanks for sharing Amy. 🙂
Comment by Debbie — November 4, 2009 @ 1:48 pm |