‘Interpretation in music is simply the act of performance’. So says Percy Scholes in The Oxford Companion to Music.

It could not be more clearly put!

As we begin a new piece the mechanical elements of learning such as the right notes/pitch, correct fingering (on the piano), breathing (for singers) and difficult rhythms can all stop us from being able to interpret the music as we would like. 

Only once we have gained a moderate level of accuracy in the aforementioned, can we begin to look all the other aspects of music…but it is here where all the fun lies!

Freedom of creativity and imagination is essential for great interpretation!

Here are some starter hints:

  • Tempo… choice of tempo can influence the whole interpretation, for better or worse! Take care to think and look at the whole piece before you begin. Hint…Look out for whether the tempo may actually change anywhere during the piece to build up emotion or whether it remains the same.
  • Mood and imagination… the mood of a piece or song is largely a matter of personal feelings. The ability of the performer to convey what he/she feels really matters. Aim to develop a good imagination in order to deliver your music expressively.

  • Quality, Variety of TONE… this is a massive subject and worthy of an entire blog of its own. Try to listen to the sound that you are producing. Harsh, thin, raspy, light, heavy and sweet are all words to describe tone. Making a beautiful sound in the voice and on the piano require you to listen to what you are doing. A good ear and persistence will pay off!
  • Dynamics…quite literally loud, quiet and everything in-between. Never underestimate how important the use of dynamics can be. They can direct your listener to the exact point of expression that you want them to hear. 

It is always hard when starting out to have ideas about how music can sound. With the technology now available to you there is always the option to listen and imitate someone else… but remember that this is just a hint towards getting your own ideas started. 

In every act of self-expression there is ‘good-taste’ and ‘bad-taste’… so keep creating, being imaginative and soon you’ll find a perfect sound that is truly your very own interpretation!

….time for another coffee I think…. ????