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This is one of Mili's prettiest pieces. It's his fifth mazurka, which he incorporated into his Bb minor sonata as the second movement. I've been working on this for about three weeks and hope to have it ready for PianoTexas. Obviously it has a ways to go, as you Americans would say. In any event, enjoy the lovely, singable melodies. And forgive the tuning - PianoCraft will be coming by next week.

Great stuff, Simon! So (collegially) jealous! It starts and ends sweetly, but the middle is on the way to Islameyian difficulty. How did you memorize all that in three weeks?? (And get the d&#% notes right???)

Thanks, mate. There are definitely some difficult moments, but really not on the scale of Islamey. I say that because I think I can master this piece whereas Islamey, I dunno.

Speaking of the Oriental Fantasy, I am scheduled to play it in a masterclass with Olga Kern during PianoTexas. Then, two days later, Olga will be performing it in one of the distinguished artists recitals. My stress levels are peaking at about 12,000 rpm.

It's pretty and lovely, indeed, the Russian repertoire offers tons of enchanting stuff!

Thank you for presenting us one of these gems, and congratulations for playing it in such a convincing way after only three weeks of practicing, I'm very impressed!