Chopin Ballade No.1 Op.23

[yw1935]

[yodaofpiano]

Hi.

Wow, this is really good!. Your technique is awesome, and you played that Ballade basically 100% note perfect. Only a few comments:
I think the section before the final coda could use a little more rubato in some places. I'm talking about that theme that's already been played twice before in different keys, and this is the third time it's shown up. My other comment is about the pedaling. I think you have the opposite "problem" (if you can even call it that) of kind of 'under-pedaling'. I'm so glad that you're not over-pedaling, like most young players do today; the pedal, as my teacher says, is used for colour, not for covering up missed notes or things you can't play. I think you could use more of it in some places, but this is totally subjective, as is my other comment; your playing is so clean as it is, so if you feel like over-pedaling would hamper your ability to keep the piece this clean, then don't change anything. Last general comment: don't be afraid to be more musically expressive! Good luck in your future endeavors  

[emill]

simply beautiful RACHEL ! ! !  you have really matured as a pianist.  And to think if
my memory serves me right ... you 1st played this piece .. when you were only 11.
And you are only 13 now?  WOW ! !

[jaggens]

Hi,

Congratulations. Beautiful.
I like the flexible way how you play. I like how you listen to the notes instead of rushing over them.
In some places I would like to have more dreaming and singing approach. Excellent accomplishment.

My respect to you. You play it very well.
Thank you.

Jaak