Emotional Roots

Rachmaninoff’s “Elegie” is personally one of the most emotional pieces I have ever played, to the point where I found it incredibly difficult to play unless I was in an overwhelming emotional state. In a way, my active emotions would act as a direct link to my rendition of the piece, allowing for the melodic lines and gentle phrases to be better interpreted. The opening of this work is perhaps the most crucial moment; the first note of the main theme must be played at a perfect velocity to establish precedent for the rest of the theme. As you transition into the climactic middle section, the heaviness and intensity of it acts as an outlet for emotions. Ending with a recapitulation of the first theme and another climactic ending, the second half of the Elegie combines both intensities and creates an assertive, powerful ending.

As you take a look at the photo, you will notice that it is just a pastel color. From the moment I first heard this piece and needed to play it, this was the color I not only saw, but felt like an emotion.