Practice Journals

Follow the process of learning, exploring, and mastering music. This category shares reflective practice journals by Tiger Han, insights into technical challenges, fingering strategies, sight-reading, and the gradual discovery of musical expression. Perfect for students, teachers, and classical music lovers curious about the step-by-step journey from first sight-reading to performance-ready music.

Sourced from Beethoven Emperor Concerto Concert program by Sydney Symphony Orchestra

Why Op. 1? Beethoven Chooses His First Statement

A conversation about modern product launches made me wonder: was Beethoven’s choice of Op. 1 also a deliberate way to stand out and establish his name?

Aug 16

Practice Journal – Hearing Beyond the Piano

Listening to the orchestral version of Une barque sur l'océan transformed the way I approached the piano. Instead of thinking only about notes and technique, I began to imagine different instrumental voices, colours, and the atmosphere they create. This practice journal reflects on how hearing beyond the piano helped me shape a richer musical sound.

Aug 8

A coffee cup with a pile of coffee bean on the table next to the piano

Reading Beethoven #4 - More Than 60 Coffee Beans

A story about Beethoven counting exactly 60 coffee beans became a reminder that every articulation, dynamic and tempo marking may reflect a deliberate musical choice.

Aug 2

In the lesson, Tiger explored the final phrase of Beethoven’s Op. 81a, Das Wiedersehen at ♩ = 104.

Reading Beethoven #3 - The Speed Tells the Story

Why did Beethoven mark the final movement of Piano Sonata Op. 81a (Das Wiedersehen) at the tempo of 112? Exploring the meaning behind this extreme tempo marking reveals that Beethoven was not simply asking for speed, but expressing the unstoppable energy and overwhelming joy of reunion. A reflection on tempo, interpretation, and understanding the composer's imagination.

Jul 23

The score of Beethoven's Sonata, Op. 81a, titled "Das Lebewohl", features the opening movement marked by expressive chords annotated with the syllables "Le–be–wohl," inviting listeners to grasp the essence of farewell before the melody unfolds.

Reading Beethoven #2 - Choice of Language

Beethoven's Piano Sonata Op. 81a begins not with a tempo marking, but with a story. Through the three movements—Das Lebewohl, Abwesenheit, and Das Wiedersehen—Beethoven transforms a personal farewell into music, reminding us that understanding the narrative is the first step towards a meaningful interpretation.

Jul 20

13 4 5