Search

Vignette No. 1, from Piano Potpourri, by Zenobia Powell Perry

“Vignette No. 1” is a short, elementary-level piece that has only 17 measures. It was composed by Perry in 1990. The composer suggested to play it in Moderato tempo and mezzo-forte dynamics. It does not require the use of pedal. When playing this piece, the hands are not in fixed position, but they do not move around too much. Right hand and left hand play separately until measure 11. When both hands are playing together, it could be a challenge for beginners to phrase two different melodies well so that they both sound clear. More experienced students could experiment with articulation and dynamics on their own in the acceptable range. 

The piece does not feature harmonies; instead, it has two contrapuntal lines that are melodious and lyrical. They sounds like two people having a small conversation. The piece begins with one person telling a story, then another person answers back. A quiet and calm conversation that ends happily because of the authentic cadence at the end of the piece. 

Piano Potpourri is a set of 15 piano pieces composed between 1960 and 1990. The levels of the pieces vary from elementary to late advanced. The set has a thick structure and deep emotion overall. 

Zenobia Powell Perry (1908-2004) was an African American composer, professor and civil rights activist. She taught in some historically black colleges and universities. Her musical style is described as “music with clear, classic melodies.” She studied piano and violin in her childhood. Her most powerful musical experience was hearing Hazel Harrison (African-American pianist) in a concert. 

Sources:

 

Powell Perry

Related Articles