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My teacher is finally satisfied and proud of my chopin 10/4 and I must say that I feel just as good as she does about it. It only took over a year :rolleyes: . It's the second of the chopin studies that I can really nail along with the number three (which I posted a recording of and bruce was the only one kind enough to listen). Anyway, I get to pick another one and would like to attempt one that isn't heard so often. I like the 10/11 and thought that I'd inquire about it here on the forums since I'm excited about beginning to get it into my fingers. anyone ever play or attempt to play the piece? thoughts? practice methods? Also, anyone have an idea on why this one is hardly ever played?

what about 10.2? i always want to learn that one, but my teacher hates that idea when i mentioned it...

I did 10/11 in high school and 25/8 because they both fascinated me when I heard Kilenyi and Jenner do them. 10/11 is a beautiful piece and the rolled chords have to be done a special way. The wide stretches are difficult and bringing out the inner voices when the melodic interest shifts isn't easy either. You definitely need to have a flexible wrist movement and delicate control. I wonder why it isn't played more often but I certainly like it. I would recommend it and think you will gain from its study.

Chopin 10/11 is an extremely difficult study to play well; it's even difficult just "nailing" the right notes all the time - those stretches can be really challenging. I agree with what Varcon has already stated well; the beauty of this piece lies in the shifting inner melodies against the primary melody. This isn't one of those etudes that's going to wow the uninitiated by its virtuosity; it must sound easy, relaxed, flowing, almost serene, yet it must be kept solid and secure. Several times Chopin reminds us that it's to be played dolce, dolcissimo - don't forget that!

I would look forward to hearing you play this.

Regards,