Choosing a new piece

[deemon1]

I have just finished the Chopin Barcarolle and will either be learning his Ballade 1 or La Vega by Albeniz next. Any advice in which is easier to play? Thanks very much.

[pianoman53]

If you played the complete works of Albeniz, then I'm quite sure the Albeniz piece will be easier. If you, on the other hand, played complete works of Chopin, the ballade will be easier. If you already practiced the technique used in the ballad, it will be easy to learn the notes. The same goes for Albeniz.

Aah, I just love these type of posts!

[deemon1]

Thanks - points well taken.  I guess that was kind of a goofy question. Perhaps what would be most helpful would be to hear from someone who has played La Vega and what their experience was.  There is quite a bit written about playing the ballade but I haven't been able find where anyone has discussed playing La Vega.  It would be really nice to get some tips.

[orangesodaking]

Before you choose a new piece at all, analyze what all your strengths and weaknesses are as a pianist and a musician... Various parts of your technique, various styles/eras, etc. Examine all of that and see what you're good at and what needs more work.

Both of those pieces are available on IMSLP, if you don't have hard copies of the score. Look through both of them and try various passages out on the piano here and there to see what technical difficulties are involved, and other things like that.

The version of La Vega on IMSLP has fingerings written in by the uploader, it seems. Those may be helpful if you choose to learn that piece.

[deemon1]

Thanks very much for your thoughtful advice. I usually decide on what I want to play and then go for it.  While the music I choose to learn has to be at least within the realm of my capabilities (and sadly a lot is not ), this is the first time where I really needed some guidance.  I found the Barcarolle to be very difficult (kind of embarrassed on how long it took - and still not quite up to where I would like it) and this may have resulted in making me more tentative (respectful?) in selecting a new piece.  I'll also look at the the IMSLP La Vega that you recommend - wonderful to have some fingering already done! Best, D.

[quantum]

When choosing repertoire at this level, it is useful to do some preliminary research first.  This may involve sight reading through select portions of the pieces.  You may want to pick out passages that look difficult to you and give them a try.  From there you may also wish to take into account any deadlines or time constraints you have in learning a piece (Eg: is it for a jury in six months).  Doing some preliminary exploration will give you a better idea if the piece in question is one you should tackle at the given moment. 

[deemon1]

Excellent.  Thank you - I'll definitely follow through as you suggest. I'm so glad that I posted my question.  All of you have helped me immensely. I am very appreciative. Best, D.