Gershwin Prellude No. 1 - seeking feedback

[kyliec]

Hi, I am currently 28 days away from my AMEB grade 8 exams. This is my list D peice and I'd appreciate any constructive feedback.

thanks for listening,
Kylie

[daro]

Hi, Kylie,

The notes and basic rhythm appear to be well within your grasp, though, as I'm sure you're aware, the piece is really supposed to be played much, much faster. That said, it can certainly be effective when played slowly; however, in either case, at this point, you need to be concentrating on dynamics, which it appears you haven't quite gotten to yet. This work, more than anything else, should convey liveliness and fun; you should bring to it a rambunctious, Roaring Twenties jazz vibe; it doesn't work if it just sounds like Corelli with a backbeat.

To do this, you have to make a lot of your accents sharp and quick, and your staccatos light and fast; don't overpedal, and think of your phrasing in terms of building and maintaining momentum. (If you're not using Alicia Zizzo's edition of this, I would strongly recommend getting a hold of a copy and following her lead in working out a good interpretation).

Good luck,

yd

[kyliec]

Hi YD, thanks for your helpful comments,
Kylie

[mrba1979]

Hi, Kylie,

The notes and basic rhythm appear to be well within your grasp, though, as I'm sure you're aware, the piece is really supposed to be played much, much faster. That said, it can certainly be effective when played slowly; however, in either case, at this point, you need to be concentrating on dynamics, which it appears you haven't quite gotten to yet. This work, more than anything else, should convey liveliness and fun; you should bring to it a rambunctious, Roaring Twenties jazz vibe; it doesn't work if it just sounds like Corelli with a backbeat.

To do this, you have to make a lot of your accents sharp and quick, and your staccatos light and fast; don't overpedal, and think of your phrasing in terms of building and maintaining momentum. (If you're not using Alicia Zizzo's edition of this, I would strongly recommend getting a hold of a copy and following her lead in working out a good interpretation).

Good luck,

yd

I agree. 

I just wanted to add I think it is kind of a funny piece to take a test with.  I do not mean it is a bad choice, it is just such a contrast between what the piece was meant for and the sterile stage/room you will be taking the test in.  From the first single note phrasing bring the room alive.  This is what that piece has the potential to do.  Make it explicit!  Your not taking a test.  You are the devil at the piano ready to bring the party on to those "powers that be" giving you a grade!

If you would not mind and or have time upload this again closer to the exam.  I would like to hear where you are going to take this piece.