am i hopeless?

[ryanyee]

i've been playing the fugue portion of the f# minor prelude and fugue WTC2 for about 2 weeks since i came back from overseas and even though i've familiarized with the notes, somehow i keep making ridiculous mistakes like hitting a key a 3rd away and moving the wrong direction on the keyboard. and just a few days ago i started making these mistakes and i've been able to correct them. i find this very ridiculous. and im also trying out the fugue portion of the b flat minor WTC. i know why im always pausing when i sightread but it's never been this bad before. what could the problem be here? im finding it hard to move my fingers too. it's like somethings holding me back.

[db05]

It could be that you're too dependent on your sightreading.

for me i'm totally dependent on my sightreading abilities but i always can't remember the exact notes i've played until like 20 times later. it depends on the way u memorize the notes too.

Although it's a very nice skill to have, it's not good in this case if it's holding you back. Bach is really tough. It could be difficulty in reading, technique, hearing the notes or all of the above.

I think you're still learning it. 2 weeks isn't long. Don't give up!

[quantum]

I think you need to isolate the problem spots and start doing something different in your playing.  Don't ignore mistakes that seem to constantly recur.  You need to tackle them immediately before they become bad habits.  I know it is much easier to pass it off and say "I haven't practiced this enough", but one has to do something different with one's behavior and playing in order to initiate the change. 

If you keep making the mistakes try to replicate the mistake consciously.  Then play the correct version.  Alternate between the two and make note of the differences.  Don't let your fingers go on autopilot and hope they will get the work done for you.  Think of every movement you are making, and know why you are doing something. 

2 weeks is a very short time for a Bach fugue, keep going at it.