Debussy Reflets dans l'eau

[raycol28]

Hi, could anyone help me with some tips on how to get better at this piece,thank you.

[rachfan]

Hi raycol,

You've made a very good start on this piece.  Here are a few thoughts:

You appear to be sitting too high on the bench.  Your forearms are sloping downward toward the keyboard resulting in an upflexing of both wrists which could lead to problems later on.  Try adjusting the bench downward such that your forearms, wrists and hands are all parallel to the floor and forming one flat surface from the elbow to your fingers.  This is a principle taken from ergonomics that can be applied beneficially to playing the piano.

It's good that you've memorized the piece already; however, as you know, you've got numerous wrong notes there.  For now I would go back to the score and watch it carefully as you practice.  You might even want to play it hands alone a few times with the score open.  You may find some surprises there not just on notes, but other notation as well. 

Returning to two hands, also I suggest that you stay longer in practice mode for the time being using a slower tempo and playing forte.  In any measure where you are insecure, pencil brackets around  that measure(s), and practice it more intensively.  Then dwell on the piece at a speed over which you have total control. (This will not be your performing speed.) That should improve accuracy.

I'm going to stop there.  Do try these things for now.  Looking forward to your next posting of the piece.

David