Khachaturian, Aram : *in preparation* *in preparation*
Work Overview
Genre：pieces
Copyright：Under Copyright Protection
Commentary (1)
Author : Ooi, Kazurou
Last Updated: March 12, 2018
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Author : Ooi, Kazurou
3. Ivan is Ill
This piece is difficult to understand in various ways, so let's begin by analyzing its form. It is in ABA form: A (measures 1-8), B (measures 9-16), A (measures 17-32). To understand the piece, first try playing only the top note of each chord in the right hand. If you play only the melody as a single line, you will find that it is not as difficult to understand as it seems. Especially in the B section, even if you only play the melody, it's almost as if you could determine the key as A-flat minor. Therefore, when actually performing, aim for a balance where the extracted top notes of the chords resonate most clearly, and focus your attention on the ring and little fingers of your right hand.
Next, regarding shaping: in the A section, the phrases are two measures long (2 measures x 4). All four of these phrases aim for the "third chord." That is, in measures 1-2, it is the chord on beats 1-2 of measure 2; in measures 3-4, it is the chord on beats 1-2 of measure 4 (and so on). Gradually increase the volume towards the third chord, and then diminish once it is reached.
Considering the dynamics of these four phrases in the A section, it is reasonable to assume that the fourth phrase should be the loudest. Therefore, gradually increase the volume from the first phrase towards the fourth, while maintaining the aforementioned shaping.
Regarding the shaping of the B section, this will be left to the performer. The phrases in this section are also two measures long. Within each two-measure unit, determine which chord requires the most energy. When returning from measure 16 to the A section at measure 17, although nothing is indicated, it is acceptable to slow down slightly before entering measure 17.
As for the tempo, it is advisable to set it such that the melodic line connects smoothly.
A common fundamental problem encountered in this piece is misreading the score. Even if each chord does not feel natural to you, pay attention to accidentals and calmly read the notes to ensure there are no score-reading errors.