Illinois professors groove remote with reproducing piano technology lessons.

TLDR:

Key Points:

• University of Illinois piano professors and students used technology to connect pianos in two different locations for remote lessons.
• They used Yamaha Disklavier DCFX concert grand pianos which reproduce the exact performance on one piano onto another in real time.

In a recent piano masterclass, professors from U. of I. and Roosevelt University taught lessons to students using this technology. The piano has optic sensors that record key and foot pedal movements, providing detailed feedback. This technology not only allows for remote lessons but also helps in recording performances, critiquing practice, and holding auditions remotely. Additionally, it has been used by a U of I professor, Rochelle Sennet, to record the final three-disc set of her Bach to Black project, highlighting compositions by Bach and Black composers to encourage diversity in classical music.

Full Article:

In a recent piano masterclass, University of Illinois piano professors and students utilized the Yamaha Disklavier DCFX concert grand pianos to connect pianos in two different locations for remote lessons. This technology allows the exact performance on one piano to be reproduced on another in real time, providing a seamless experience for both the teacher and student.

The Disklavier pianos have optic sensors that record key and foot pedal movements, offering detailed feedback for the musicians. This technology not only enables remote lessons but also assists in recording performances, critiquing practice sessions, and holding auditions without the need for physical travel.

During the masterclass, professors from the U. of I. School of Music and Roosevelt University taught separate lessons to students using this innovative technology. Rochelle Sennet, a U of I piano professor, also used the Disklavier piano to record the final three-disc set of her Bach to Black project, showcasing compositions by both Bach and Black composers to promote diversity in classical music.

This technology not only enhances the learning experience for piano students but also opens up new possibilities for recording, practicing, and auditioning in the field of music. It serves as a valuable tool for musicians and educators looking to adapt to the changing landscape of music education and performance.