A technical and musical approach to Rachmaninoff's Etudes-tableaux

摘要

This purpose of this study was to identify and analyze the technical and musical challenges in selected pieces from Sergei Rachmaninoff's Études-Tableaux that were performed on the investigator’s Master’s Recital. Issues to be addressed were the following: What are the unique musical and technical challenges of each piece? What practicing methods may be utilized to fully overcome each challenge? These questions were addressed by reflecting on the investigator’s transformation of physical and mental practicing methodology during preparation for the Master’s Recital. Once challenges were revealed, the investigator explained effective practicing solutions and benefits to overcoming each challenge. The study concluded with an overall assessment of improvements in the investigator’s practicing efficiency, technical refinement, musical achievement, and expansion of potential studying and career possibilities following completion of the Master’s Recital.