PIANO ACCOMPANIMENT OPTIONS
Kaleidoscopes Books 1-2
If you’re in Kaleidscopes Book 1, send me an audio recording of the songs you’re performing. I’ll have Dr. James create a recording of the piano part in your chosen key and tempo.
If you’re working in Kaleidoscopes Book 2, you should have received a SoundCloud link to the piano solo recordings. Please request a digital file for your specific tracks if you want to use an app to change the tempo.
Suzuki and Barbara Barber Books
The second half of the CD supplied with every Suzuki book (although not the original Takako Nishizaki recordings) includes the piano parts for all the songs.
You can buy these albums digitally on Amazon / iTunes. Here are Amazon links for Book 1, Book 2, Book 3, Book 4, Book 5, and Book 6. Book 7 is available on iTunes only. All of the Barbara Barber books have digital download available.
Feel free to use a music speed changer app (right) as needed.
Online Suzuki Accompaniments
SmartMusic.com is subscription-based. Some students may already have access through their school orchestra. Its advantages are 1) A built-in speed changer, 2) You can see where you are in the printed music, and 3) You can individually adjust the volume of the piano, violin part, and metronome. It is useful for preparation purposes, but not for performance, since the digital playback lacks the subtleties of timing / expression of a professional live recording.
Advanced Repertoire
For major repertoire, the website Piano-Accompaniments.com is outstanding. These are professionally recorded live accompaniments. If you need a particular recording just let me know and I will make the purchase on your behalf. Use the music speed changer apps to the right as needed.
Individual Accompaniment
For all other needs, we will have Dr. James create a piano recording for you. Just send me an audio recording of you playing your piece at the desired tempo.
ADDITIONAL RESOURCES
Music Speed Changer Apps
A successful performance depends on choosing a tempo that is not too fast. Use these apps below to get the perfect tempo. There are other programs out there so feel free to find something that works for you!
Android phone / tablet: Use the Music Speed Changer. Long-press any music file on your phone and select “Open with.” Then choose the app from the list of programs.
Apple phone / iPad: The Amazing Slow Downer will play any file on your phone. One trick: If you purchased the recording on Amazon, you’ll need to download it to your computer first, then send it to your phone so the app can find it.
On your computer: Use the online tools Music Speed Changer, Anytune, or TimeStretch.
Instructions for Getting into SmartMusic
1. Create an account on SmartMusic.com. Make sure to choose “New Smartmusic.”
2. Search “Violin.” Choose something interesting and click the title.
3. Use the drop-down menu under “MOVEMENT” to pick a song.
4. Click “OPEN.”
5. Hit the play button to play the song ONE TIME.
7. Use the metronome controls (the + and – signs, top left) to adjust the tempo.
8. Use the “Accompaniment,” My Part,” and “Metronome” controls to adjust the volume. Notice the tiny mute button to the right of each volume slider.