Is it possible?

[frederic]

I am LEARNING (not finished) the 1st movement of Chopin's 3rd Sonata, Rachmaninoff's Polichinelle and Bartok Sonata for 2 pianos and percussion (which is extremely difficult) for a competition in June/July.
Do you think its possible for me to learn the final mvt of the sonata as well, in just 3 months, to perfection????

 What would you do???

[Colette]

this is funny,  because i'm in a similar position. i've just decided to enter a french competition in may that requires me to learn a new and unusual repertoire. i did this purposefully, however. (with the prodding influence of my teacher). it takes me a relatively long time to bring pieces up to the level i want them; i'm a perfectionist so i drive myself insanely crazy with all the details. so, i'm giving myself a challenge by allowing myself a short amount of time to learn new pieces under pressure. it introduces a new way of learning and working that will be beneficial in the long run, and eventually, produce a more flexible pianist.  i think this is a rewarding, confidence boosting process and, hopefully, result. of course, the challenge cannot be met without the preparation, and to pull it off you must be dedicated and very structured. i know this now more than ever, because recently, i paid the price for not working as hard as i should have, and did not rise to the particular occaision with grace. i think it is possible for you to make it in three months. it just depends on how much time and self motivation you are willing to devote to your goal. the pieces you picked are great, the bartok is so amazing, so have fun with it and work your butt off.