The Art of Preluding
Keynote
19 August 2026
14:00–15:00 hrs (GMT + 7)
C501
Jeroen Malaise

According to the renowned pianist, composer, and pedagogue Carl Czerny, The Art of Preluding is the very first step into the world of musical improvisation. Improvised preludes were a common practice and a regular feature of piano concerts throughout the eighteenth and nineteenth centuries. They were used not only to introduce the repertoire that followed, but also to warm up the fingers and create the appropriate atmosphere for the audience. For today's pianist, preluding offers a unique opportunity to develop a personal connection with different keys and their associated playing techniques. Practising this discipline strengthens tonal awareness, develops technical fluency, and stimulates the imagination. Ultimately, it opens the door to a deeper awareness of the innate human desire to improvise and express oneself spontaneously through music. More information can be found at www.the-art-of-preluding.com.