Béla Bartók: Mikrokosmos Complete

Book excerpt: Béla Bartók’s six-book Mikrokosmos cycle is here presented for the first time in a superb single volume. Written between 1926 and 1939, this celebrated musical work spans simple études for beginners and complex technical tours de force aimed at skilled pianists. Bartók’s musical microcosm was designed to map and illustrate musical and technical progressions that remain as relevant to musical education today as they were when first published. From pieces suitable for those working towards Grade 1 to complex Grade 8-level pieces it advances through fundamentals such as hand co-ordination, musicality, aural skills and ensemble-playing, to complex and professionally performable concert pieces. Already accomplished players will discover a wealth of material to enjoy both as sight reading practice and as performance pieces. Beginners will find themselves embarking on a musical journey that promises potential mastery of their instrument. Mikrokosmos is a truly indispensable addition to every serious pianist’s library.