Bartók Béla Viktor János ： Mikrokosmos Vol.1 No.22 Imitation and Counterpoint BB 105 Sz 107

No. 22 from Volume 1 of Mikrokosmos is an educational piece for learning the fundamentals of imitation and counterpoint. The motion of one voice is taken up by another, allowing independent lines to overlap and shape the music. Within this compact work, it is important to listen closely to the role and flow of each voice. In practice, begin by playing each hand clearly, keeping the note lengths and articulation consistent. Then, allowing the leading voice to come slightly forward while keeping the answering voice more restrained will help convey the relationship of imitation. Rather than playing the notes mechanically, be attentive to the direction of the phrases and natural breathing; this will bring transparency to the counterpoint.