Overview
This week I started working on Chopin’s Waltz in A minor Op 34 No 2. I know I said I wasn’t going to starting working on any new repertoire until I finished recording the pieces I’ve already finished, but it’s taking a little longer than I hoped to start recording. In addition, I needed a piece to work on for applying the concepts I’m learning in the tonebase two-week intensive.
Sessions
At My Desk
| S | M | Tu | W | Th | F | S |
| ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | – |
At the Piano
| S | M | Tu | W | Th | F | S |
| ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | – |
Technique
Improve Your Chopin Ornaments in Two Weeks With Jarred Dunn (tonebase Two-Week Intensive)
Week 2: Continue to practice techniques from first week and apply them to a piece I’m learning — Chopin – Waltz in A minor Op 34 No 2.
We had our final check-in via zoom on Monday evening. I can’t believe it’s already over. I’m just getting started!
Repertoire
Chopin – Waltz in A minor Op 34 No 2
At My Desk
Since this is a new piece, I spent a fair amount of time creating the initial draft of my study guide.
I dug out my copy of Eleanor Bailie’s Chopin: A graded practical guide, and the Study Edition by Cortot.
I was able to find many performances on YouTube and Facebook. Sadly, the performer’s hands are often not in the shot, as the camera shifts to other views.
In addition, I found the recording of a masterclass given by Cyprien Katsaris, and a lecture/analysis by Greg Niemczuk.
At the piano
I focused mainly on section c (bars 37-52) of the waltz.
Ornaments
I’m still considering my approach to ornaments for this section. Initially, I thought I would play them as triplets since, to me, it makes this section “dance” and flow more. After listening to a number of recordings, I’m uncertain if that’s what I’ll do. Currently, I’m practicing using several options. I’ll make my final decision after I’m playing at speed. I may mix it up a little.
Tempo
I believe the target tempo for this section should vary between ♩ = 120 and ♩ = 132. It should be more lively than the preceding sections. Currently, I’m practicing at about ♩ = 60, trying to push up to ♩ = 90. It doesn’t seem that I used to have so much trouble playing pieces at speed. Hopefully, that will improve in the coming months as my technique improves.
Difficulties
Arpeggios: The major challenge for me in this section are the arpeggios (broken chords?) in bars 37, 41, 45, and 49. They don’t feel comfortable. See my study notes for more details.
I had a problem executing the ornament in bar 45. See my study notes for more details.
Maintaining Repertoire and Getting Ready to Record
Still working on my recording setup! I spent time maintaining the 19 pieces I’ve finished in Exploring Piano Classics – Repertoire Level 1. Hopefully, I’ll be able to start recording this coming week.
Disclaimer. I am an amateur, fumbling her way back to the piano. This is my hobby and I do it for fun. I am happy to share my process, but, please keep in mind… I am not a teacher. If something I am doing doesn’t work for you, or doesn’t feel right, or outright hurts, stop! Everybody is different. Playing the piano is not a one-size-fits-all activity. Have fun with it.
Last Updated on August 7, 2022
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