Sergei Rachmaninov ： Morceaux de fantaisie “Elegie” es-moll op.3-1

This character piece is marked by the deep shadows of E-flat minor and a long-breathed melody. At the opening, a songlike theme quietly emerges over weighty chords, gradually heightening the tension as the range and resonance expand. The middle section brings a change of expression, leading to an emotional climax before the mood of the opening returns and the piece closes quietly. Points to appreciate include the changing harmony, including the inner voices, and the melody’s ascent into the upper register. In performance, it is important to bring out the melody fully without making the accompanying chords too heavy. Use the pedal to sustain the resonance while avoiding blur, and carefully shape the breathing of each phrase and subtle tempo flexibility to bring out both the music’s sorrow and grandeur.