It depends on how you look at it! They are virtually the same but the label can make one seem harder than the other.
This came up for me when I got frustrated while working on a new sonata by my childhood friend Richard Field.
Before I say more about the music, let me tell you about me and Richard.
We met when I was six and he was five learning piano with my mom.
Since then, we’ve had a lot of creative ventures.
When I was 16 I starred in his film: Space Sketch—a send-up of Star Trek, where I played the Captain.
Richard also managed my campaign to be mayor of Lancaster during Government Youth Day. We ran on the Toga Party ticket.
Guess what we wore?
Now forty years later, Richard and I are teaming up again!
But this time no bedsheets or space suits.
Richard has written two sonatas for me and my mom.
So, back to the first question.
I’m reading his sonata and getting frustrated by the F flat in a key signature which already has 6 other flats.
But then I just shifted it to an E Natural and it flowed.
I realized I could change all those flats in my mind. It’s not a big deal!
This isn’t new to me but it shows you the power of perception.
And, a reminder that the ink on the page isn’t the actual music. It’s just inkblots on a page. The notes are instructions or a bridge between the composer and the player.
Agree? I’d love to hear your thoughts!
We started the recording process last week.
Here’s a sneak peek of our rehearsal video!
Interested in hearing more? Check out Richard Field's promo video by clicking on this link!
All the best,
Michael
P.S.--Thanks for being in community with me. Stay tuned for my new patreon channel where I’ll have even more music and videos for you!
