Two Pianos, Two Hands

Two Pianos, Two Hands explores the concepts of ability, disability, and identity as applied to musicianship. One performer uses the right hand; the other uses the left. Additionally, three different interchangeable versions are available for each performer to accommodate all levels of piano proficiency, musical literacy, and cognitive function. Purchase the whole set or just the version you want to perform. Each of the nine basic permutations may be purchased individually as instrumental parts at a discounted rate with labels in the format 'Version "LI-RIII." ' This particular example indicates that the left hand performer would be playing version I and the right hand performer would be playing version III (see descriptions of the three versions below). All versions of this piece are equally valid, and performers should strive for the highest level of musicianship of which they are capable, whichever version they chose to perform. They may also choose to play from different versions at different points in the piece, creating endless possibilities for how the piece turns out while still maintaining a coherent feeling. Generally, the right hand part is more difficult than the left hand part. Version I: this version is the most flexible, being a completely improvised part. Instructions are given to guide the improvisation in the form of verbal instructions, symbols indicating whether to use black or white notes or both, graphics that show what register to play in, and diagrams of piano keys indicating what hand positions to use at various points. If needed, a person playing this version may receive verbal cues in performance. Version II: this version is the easier of the two that are fully notated, and may be further simplified by the performer if needed. Version III: the most technically challenging, this version includes quick changes between unusual chords, fast register leaps, very difficult rhythms, and staggered entrances and releases of notes in chords. Duration: 10 minutes. To learn more about the composer and her other works, visit marialordknivetonmusic.com.