Pieces from AGMS Syllabus: Arabian Journey | Secret Agent Hideout | Skater's Dream | Tricks of the Trade
About Secret Agent Hideout
Secret Agent Hideout is a spy special using the minor 12-bar blues in C minor. The LH has most of the melody.
Teaching Tips
- Teach the body percussion of the LH rhythm (see below) along with the backing track (B.T.). (see Body Percussion music)
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Teach the LH notes by imitation (rote). Students can then play along with the the B.T.
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Next read the LH notes and play with B.T.
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Introduce the RH phrases. Encourage the student to tap the LH quavers on the thigh while playing the RH as soon as possible.
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Work on playing hands. As soon as possible, try playing with the B.T.
The focus for technique in this work includes:
- LH needs to be balanced with RH – ensure the LH is the strongest part with the RH adding interest.
- Playing along with the backing track will give you the feel for the music – play the song how you hear it and it will be an excellent performance.
Dynamics – encourage your student to play the dynamics to the best of their ability.
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General Knowledge
Key:
CÂ minor blues
Tempo:
Mysteriously at the tempo of a spy.
Form:
Minor 12-bar Blues
About Gillian and Paul
Gillian Erskine & Paul Myatt have been pedagogical composers since 1993. They are the creators of Whole Body Learning, which forms the basis of the Forte School of Music curriculum, an Australian-designed program for Group Piano teaching that is now exported to other countries, including the USA, the UK, Canada, and New Zealand. They are also the founders of Piano Teaching Success, which helps piano teachers utilise Whole Body Learning in their teaching to engage students and develop essential musical skills for lifelong learning.
