[Illustration: BRAHMS]
A grave blunder of our present music study is the neglect of ensemble
playing and singing. Some of the noblest music written is for
part-singing and for two or more instruments. Much profit and delight
will be the result of making its acquaintance. Four and eight hand piano
arrangements of the great overtures and symphonies, too, are valuable
and enjoyable. They prepare the way for an appreciation of an
orchestral performance of these masterpieces, and broaden the musical
horizon. Where there are several music students in a family it is a pity
for them to confine their efforts exclusively to the piano, although
every musician should have some knowledge of this household instrument.
That is a happy home whose members are united by the playing or singing
of noble concerted music.
It is an absurd error to suppose that fine soloists cannot succeed in
ensemble work, or as accompanists. Those who fail have been poorly
grounded in their art. They may give dazzling performances of works
bristling with technical difficulties, yet make a sad failure of some
slow, tender movement that calls for musicianly understanding and
delicate treatment.
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