To the great music teachers of this board.

[Agnes Selby]

I would greatly appreciate your opinion about the
influence played by Bartok's Microcosmos on youg
piano students.

Many thanks,
Agnes.

[Sorrano]

I would greatly appreciate your opinion about the
influence played by Bartok's Microcosmos on youg
piano students.

Many thanks,
Agnes.

In speaking from a student's point of view (many years ago) I found the Microcosmos very difficult and I did not look forward to learning them. Although I dreaded the pieces I did find them to be interesting and enjoyable. Years later I find I have a great fondness for Bartok and feel that it is as a direct result of playing those studies. A better concentration with these books would have given me a better sense of rhythm and freedom of hands.

[Peter]

My first introduction to Microcosmos was as sight-reading practice for which they are excellent material - I think they are valuable as an introduction to 20th century music, but really for the more musical student who doesn't always need a pretty tune to play to auntie!

[Agnes Selby]

Thank you Peter and Sorrano for responding to my question. I am most
grateful for your inputs.

Kind regards,
Agnes.

[Sorrano]

These do open possibilities that more traditional exercises do not afford, such as Hanon, etc. They are a good preparation for both Classical and 20th Century musical styles.