Duets and Trio

Playing with others is a real treat!

Playing in duets and trios yields a multitude of benefits as it is an integral component of comprehensive music training.

Firstly, it is important to be able to perform with other people playing the same instrument. In doing so, they will learn not only their own part, but also how to follow the other part(s) as they play along. This will increase ear training, which will allow students to recognize patterns and harmonies in music, all of which will improve their ability to correct themselves during practices and performances.

Duets and trios also reinforce the use of music as a social activity. Many times, playing with other people for fun will lead to a partnership to perform in a recital. Duets and trios are definitely crowd-pleasers! They create a more positive learning environment and strengthen bonds between students. The enjoyment that results from playing duets and trios leads to an increase in playing in general.

Five reasons that students should learn to play in duets and trios:

1. Interaction – Duets and trios teach students to think and listen in a different way.
2. Teamwork – Duets and trios teach students to practice with a partner. Who turns the page? How do you play when the keyboard is shared? A student must know what their partner is doing and compromise accordingly.
3. Rhythmic control – With a partner, the student is more likely to maintain a steady rhythm. Over time, students gain better rhythmic consistency and learn to adapt to any tempo set by a partner or teacher.
4. Concentration and motivation – Often, a student will exert more effort and concentration when playing in a duet or a trio than they do during solo practice. Duets and trios encourage each student to do their best.
5. Fun – Duets and trios are fun! The piano ensemble provides a fun social activity, giving students a different perspective and a renewed appreciation for music!