Schumann Fantasie op.17, 1st mov.

[jgendron]

Hi everyone !

I'm thinking of beginning the first movement of the Schumann Fantasie op.17. After trying it out a few times, I found that my biggest struggle is the very beginning : the theme with that very fast arpeggiated left hand. I am pretty sure I can play the rest pretty well, it really fits my technique, my taste and my will to learn it. I know it is a very difficult piece to interpret but I have played a few pieces that I think would fit that particular criteria (Chopin's first Ballade, 4th Scherzo and even Polonaise-Fantasy, or Schumann's Abegg Variations, for example).

So, how should I practice so I make sure that that left hand is smooth, fast, and "easy" ? I'm looking here for your personal little tricks. I practice it slowly and in rhythms so far, of course.

Thank you for your replies !

J.