RELAX!!!!!!

Dear little soul

Didn't I have a great piano lesson yesterday?

As you know, I am playing a Beethoven Sonata (in C minor, The Little Pathetique, Op 10, No 5) and have really enjoyed the energy and dynamism of the first movement. Lots of full arm movements and sforzandos and pianissimos.

But when I get to the Adagio (second movement), I can't seem to go down a gear to play it. My teacher said that instead of creating stillness I am looking ahead to play the next part of the piece. He said I need to invoke relaxation - for myself and the listener.

I hope you can help me, dear little soul. I do have trouble making transitions from the busy-ness of day and the stillness of night, generally speaking, so naturally I have some difficulty shifting from the first movement of this sonata, to the second. My teacher said that some performers wait a terribly long time when finishing the first movement and beginning the second (something I recall, from many moons ago). I want to take that time.

You know yourself how beautiful that second movement is, so why rush it? Why not lull you, and everyone else around me into a state of swoonlike tranquility? Goodness knows, I need it!

When it's ready, I'll post a recording of my playing it. I can't wait to see your reaction when you hear it when you are out of my tummy. That goes for the Allegro Molto, the Adagio and eventually the Finale (Prestissimo). It's going to be a fun few months!

Love your Soul Mama

P.S. Here is the most amazing, freakishly gifted Daniel Barenboim's recording of the Adagio.
Sit back and enjoy ...