Children's Studies

Carl Albert Löschhorn (1819–1905) was one of the most sought-after piano teachers in the Berlin area. His Children's Studies Op. 181 was originally published in two volumes with 20 studies each. The new edition in the Essential Exercises series contains them in one volume. The studies are composed for beginners already mastering the basics who shall practice and overcome more difficult technical challenges. Notwithstanding the title, the pieces are in no way childish and can therefore be used by students of every age. In each study, Löschhorn uses a technical exercise in the musical context which he varies in many different ways, combines in an imaginative manner, shapes into a manageable form, thus creating wonderful musical miniatures. What makes the collection all the more valuable is the fact that both hands are trained equally. With the Children's Studies, the pianist learns to practice major basic forms of playing. Once started, the 'module' to be practised is like a perpetuum mobile, causing continuous movement until the end of the respective study. The entire tonal range is explored, and little surprises require the player's concentration. Technique and music are combined in an impressive manner.