How to play the 16th notes (En Avril A Paris)

[mathandmusic]

Hi,

I'm having trouble playing the sequence of 16th notes at 56, 58 (into 59), 60 (into 61).

In particular I don't know the fingering for this section. I don't understand the rhythm for it either ...

Best,
M

[iansinclair]

Well... fingering I don't usually comment on, as my fingerings tend to be peculiar, for a variety of reasons.  My usual comment is... whatever works.

As to rhythm, though, there is no mystery here -- the 16ths are twice as fast as the eighths.  They are decorative, yes -- but in no sense are they ornaments.  Play them in strict time...

[j_menz]

Bar 56, I'd use 4 on the G and 2321 for the lower ones. As Ian says, these are timed.

In bars 58 and 60, they are incorrectly notated and should be 32nds (again, in time). Try them with the left hand as they are actually part of that musical line.

The opening notes of bars 59 and 61 are ornaments so play in free time, probably before the beat - though without knowing the piece or what it is it's difficult to be definitive - use your judgment.

[mathandmusic]

Bar 56, I'd use 4 on the G and 2321 for the lower ones. As Ian says, these are timed.

In bars 58 and 60, they are incorrectly notated and should be 32nds (again, in time). Try them with the left hand as they are actually part of that musical line.

The opening notes of bars 59 and 61 are ornaments so play in free time, probably before the beat - though without knowing the piece or what it is it's difficult to be definitive - use your judgment.

Hi j_menz,

Are you sure they should be 32nds? Each bar contains 6 eighth notes. There are 4 eighth notes and 4 16th's (2 eighth notes) in bar 58.

[j_menz]

Hi j_menz,

Are you sure they should be 32nds? Each bar contains 6 eighth notes. There are 4 eighth notes and 4 16th's (2 eighth notes) in bar 58.

You're right. I've managed to confuse myself (surprisingly easy at times). Sorry.

The fingering bit is right, though.

I also see that in 58 and 60 the Ab and G are technically tied with the first note of the following bar. I wouldn't actually tie them (or try to hold them) but you should aim for a feeling of connection and probably not emphasise that tied note even though it's on the beat. You should still emphasise the ones in the treble.