Exploring the role of the wrist in Viennese piano technique

Abstract

This dissertation explores the critical role and various uses of the wrist in Viennese piano technique through a selection of studies from the Viennese pianoforte school of the Classical era. The introductory chapter provides a historical background by taking into account the developments that led to the conception of the Viennese piano. Then, after examining the characteristics of the Viennese instrument, a detailed overview of the Viennese Piano School is given, followed by considerations pertaining to performance practice. The second chapter then investigates the ways in which the wrist can help the modern-day performer to practise two chosen studies by Hummel and Czerny which were written idiomatically for the Viennese-action piano. The conclusion seeks to synthesise the main arguments and findings as well as the limitations of this research.