fingering problem

[jamie0168]

how would you finger a LH chord from the bottem , up: C#, F#, B, C#. I've been trying it at 5,3,2,1 but my 2nd finger keeps hittong the Bflat because my hands aren't big enough. My 4th finger can't reach the F#. It's in the Rach Op.32 No.8 prelude. Let me know

[jlh]

Have you tried 5 3 1 2 or 5 2 1 2?  I don't have my copy of the preludes in hand currently, but this seems like a good alternative if you're looking for ideas.

[synthesist]

Have you tried 5 3 1 2 or 5 2 1 2?

5 2 1 2? 

[whynot]

Huh, I can't find my preludes.  That's not good.  I have small hands as well, and while I don't leave out notes lightly (I mean casually), there are certainly times when I have to choose between herniating something in my hand, dropping the piece, and thoughtful editing.  I can't find my score, so I don't know what the RH is playing with that chord, but I'd probably just leave out the top LH C#.  Generally I decide by keeping the lowest note, keeping tonic, keeping any "color" notes-- sevenths, ninths, anything outside the basic triad, then see what's left.  If something's doubled, you can leave it out (I mean, not automatically! because it has a purpose, but it's a candidate for editing).  Thirds can sometimes be left out, depends on how strongly they're implied by the voicing that's left.  Anyway, that's my general thought process in this situation, if that's helpful.  This may sound woo-woo (if you know what I mean), but I think it's very important to make even tiny changes with a great respect for the work and the composer.  I think they might know what I'm doing with their piece, and if I work with it lovingly, they won't mind these minute adjustments. 

I want to encourage you to play whatever you want (that doesn't stress your hand).  Small hands are only a factor, not a liability!  Think how speedy and clean you can be with those fingers!!  Anyway, best wishes.  You can also try tipping your hand towards your pinky more, but don't strain anything.         

[sonatainfsharp]

Assuming you mean playing it BLOCKED, you might have to roll it or raise your wrist very slightly.

[jamie0168]

All great suggestions...thank you.

[Doodle]

Don't forget your other hand.  I don't have a score in front of me either, but I know when I'm playing Brahms I can frequently use my RH on the highest note of the bass chord.   If you have to roll it, then roll it.    Rachy had huge hands.  You wouldn't be the first person to have to roll things that he would not.   If I were rolling it, I would use by 2 finger on the both the higher black keys with my thumb on the white key.

D