BeA Better Piper
Figure 3:The first part of our tune showing the two bar phrases.These phrases must be
heard within the melody to properly express it,but as ever,we must not hinder the flow
of the tune by overemphasising.
each phrase due value, taking great we ask the question again and this
carenottobreakthesteadyrhythmof time we come up with the correct
the tune. . . .The tune should flow conclusion in Phrase 4.
smoothly and easily,but sound full of As with our strong and medium
life.Thiscanonlybeattainedbygood beats, our phrasing has to be done
‘pointing’.’ without interrupting the steady
In our passage from‘Willie Gray’ tempo and flow of the tune.Quite a
our phrases can be demarcated by lot to take on board and present in
vertical lines as in Fig. 3 above.We performance isn’t it? It is this skill
achieve good phrasing by fractionally which separates we pipers from the
pointing the end of the phrase and common herd of musicians.
making sure we point the start of the Thatsaidnooneshouldrunaway
next.In this tune the phrases start on withtheideathattheaboveisbeyond
the upbeat (or offbeat) notes – lowA them. Just give it some thought and
(phrases1and3)andE(phrase2)and try it out on an easier 2/4, say
end on F (phrases 1 and 3) and on E ‘Highland Laddie’, firstly (see Fig. 4
(phrase 2). below).Withdiligentpracticeprepare
If you think of it as question and to be amazed at your improvement
answer it may help. Phrase 1 is the and you can then apply these
initial query. Phrase 2 is the first techniques to your more difficult
answer which is rejected.In Phrase 3 competition marches.
Figure 4:The first part of‘Highland Laddie’with the main beats,some offbeats and
phrases marked on the top line;do the same for the bottom line yourself.
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