21
of the different values of the notes requires only a practised eye; while, for the rapid and correct execution of them, we also require a well-practised finger.
It is of great advantage to you that, in every piece, your worthy teacher either counts aloud each separate bar, or beats the time with a bit of stick, by which you are compelled to continue always in the right time.
Equally useful is it, that you have already studies several easy pieces as duets for four hands, occasionally playing the lower or bass part.
The two following capital points are most essential, and must not be overlooked:
First. Strictness in taking the right notes.
For every false note is also a dissonant note, which generally sounds very disagreeably, and strikes as unpleasantly on the ear as a spot of ink on a white frock does on the eye.
Secondly. Correctness in keeping time.
For, without time, music is unintelligible, and lost on the hearer.
To correctness in playing belong attention, tranquillity, a good position of the bands, correct fingering, and the requisite habit of striking every key in the middle of its breadth, so as not to touch any contiguous key.
To keeping time belong also the following points:
