On “playing” an instrument

The meaning of play

It always strikes me as ironical that we use the word “play” for something which we do with the utmost seriousness and even, at times, fear - of playing a wrong note, of displeasing a teacher - an experience which seems far removed from a genuine sense of playfulness, and delight in creativity. 

The Hungarian composer György Kurtág was inspired by the spontaneity of children at play at the stage when they could think of the piano as a toy.  This led him to compose an extensive series of pieces called Játekók (Games) in which pianists are encouraged to imitate young children in taking pleasure in sound and movement.  This includes exploring the whole range of the keyboard, not just the middle two octaves, and in doing so opening up one’s ears and one’s shoulders; to enjoy leaping and experimenting with different kinds of touch and sound, such as clusters and glissandi, experiencing freedom of choice and of movement with an unconditional mindset.

Let’s re-introduce a spirit of playfulness and creativity about making music.

 So you played a “wrong note”? 

 ·  Get over it and make a game of working out how to find the one you want

·  Re-frame the error as part of a journey towards the right solution

·  Or see it as part of an exploration - try improvising around it

·  Above all, don’t judge yourself - let your attitude be open-minded and unconditional

Explore, experiment with sound and movement – find something that delights you and see how you can transpose it, develop it, re-mould it, take risks - discovering how creative you can be in this process.

Let’s rediscover our sense of “playing” the piano!