The goal of Spotlight on Impressionist Style is to introduce students to the unique sounds of this style. The introduction of "Under the Sea" uses a whole tone pattern and long, Impressionistic pedals:
In the A theme (m. 5), the simple LH pattern serves as a background creating an underwater atmosphere. I tell my students that the RH beginning in m. 7 should emerge above the LH as if the mermaid Ariel ("The Little Mermaid") is calling from the sea.
In the B section, I appeal to the imagery of water to help students create one flowing idea:
The rolled chords and long pedals create a full, rich sound:
Finally, the shimmering conclusion (mm. 41-45) employs a bi-tonal combination of a C Major chord in the LH and an F-sharp Major chord in the RH:
My students block these chords. This helps them move confidently to each new position. Because this concluding section is limited to one chord in each hand, it is easy to learn and play. The sound creates the effect of something bubbling up from the bottom of the sea.
"Under the Sea" from Spotlight
on Impressionistic Style by Catherine Rollin. Copyright
© MCMXCVII by Alfred Publishing Co. Inc. Used by Permission.
I want students to appreciate the different styles. It is an important consideration on my part that the music should sound impressive. Of paramount importance to me is that students enjoy and are motivated by my music. My most important role as a composer of teaching pieces is to develop a student's love of music and playing the piano.
CATHERINE ROLLIN is an active
pianist, teacher and composer with over 200 published works for
piano students. Her workshops across the U.S. and Canada often
focus on preparing for and playing the masterworks. She maintains
a private studio in Bloomfield Hills, MI.