Brahms intermezzi opus 117 no 1

[chris2014]

I have a question about the above topic, during the middle section (Pił adagio), measure 31 i believe, the right hand has 4 note chords (Bb, Db, Fb, Ab) then falls to a single note (Ab). similarly two measures later, the same thing occurs (the same chord).

I was wondering on the types of fingerings i should use for this, i have tried 2345 and falling to the 1 on the Ab but it feels like a stretch between 3 & 4, as well as 4 & 5.

The only other choice of playing this chord which i've considered would be doing 1235 or 1345 and hopping the thumb from Bb to Ab, however i am unsure if this would be the best way to go about it.

If possible, any suggestions would be beneficial.

Many thanks,
Chris2014

[brogers70]

People's hands are different, but for what it's worth, I played that chord 2345 and then the lower Ab with the thumb. I'm not sure about "falling" to the thumb; that sounds like putting more weight on that note than it needs.

[tnan123]

I've attempted this piece before and I checked and I do play that chord 1235 then move the thumb down for the Ab. It's probably not the best, but was most comfortable for me. The tempo is slow enough that it worked okay. I find that it's easier to hit the chord with a comfortable fingering rather than hesitate as I come to it. It really depends on how you best create the sound you want and it'll be different for you. I would really consult your teacher if possible. I do think that 2345 intuitively seems best if it can be managed well.