Pianist Jennifer Heemstra joined Texas-based cellist Carrie Pierce for the hour-long concert, Rock and Renew, organised by Kolkata Classics Club and Swar Sangam in association with t2, at Kala Mandir last month. Opening and ending the session with compositions by Rachmaninoff and Brahms, the duo performed pieces like Piazzolla’s Oblivion and Le Grand Tango, Gardel’s Por una cabeza and Carter Pann’s Song in between. “In the US we do not show our stomach on stage! That is the cultural difference,” said Carrie, dressed in an Anarkali, when asked about the difference between performing in India and the US. “I love the sari, it makes women look fabulous. It complements a woman’s figure, regardless of her shape, size or height,” added Jennifer, who wore a red-and-beige lehnga.

Want to play the piano? 

Jennifer Heemstra lists the do & don’t

You can’t grow your nails, and definitely no nail polish.

No high heels while playing the piano because pedalling is involved.

Learning the piano is like learning a sport. You have to practise every day and be dilligent.

One cannot learn from YouTube. You need a teacher for guidance. 

People underestimate the power of listening. Children learn a language by listening to people. In the same way, you need to listen to music to absorb it.

From classical, jazz and blues to hip hop, you need to listen to all kinds of music. It makes you a better musician.

As a young musician, it is essential to learn the musical scales, arpeggios and chords. 

Start with pieces like Twinkle Twinkle, Chopsticks, Heart And Soul, Hot Cross Buns and Mary Had a Little Lamb.

The height of the bench is very important. Adjust it according to the height of the child.

Curve your fingers while playing the piano. 

You need to be relaxed. If you are tense, it will affect the sound.

 

JH’s fave piano scenes from Hollywood

 

SHOP FOR A CAUSE 

 

What: Pause for a Cause in association with t2 
Where: Krishna Niwas, 40 Iron Side Road, next to Ballygunge post office
When: Till February 10, 11am-7pm
What to expect: Forty-five stalls of fashionable ethnic wear. Everything from elegant saris and kurtas to bright palazzo pants and casual dresses with ethnic prints. Look out for the mojris, necklaces and some wicker knick-knack. Proceeds will be used by Concern India Foundation to aid their projects in the fields of education, health and development. 
t2 browsed.