Pagodes-Coda

[lisztmusicfan]

I have learned the piece Pagodes (from Estampes) all the way up to the coda. I cannot figure out how the heck any human being is able to play this! My teacher told me to focus on the rhythm in the left hand and the right hand will just fall into place, but that is not working out very well. Can anyone offer a suggestion on how Im supposed to play this correctly?

[awesom_o]

I hate to say this, but your teacher is correct. Once you have it, it is quite easy to remember.

The rhythm in the LH is quite steady and regular-the only difficulty is the jumps and balance/legato of the octaves.  The RH part looks complex on the page but, if you really stay close to the keys, can be accomplished with relatively simple hand movement. It challenges the flexibility though, and takes great strength to play pp at speed.

Draw vertical lines in the score to help line up the two hands. Really make sure both hands know each part separately on their own. Can you play the RH part on its own, while counting the beats out loud with your voice?