Sergei Rachmaninov ： Prelude fis-moll Op.23-1

Opening with a low, inward-looking atmosphere, this prelude unfolds with quiet tension and unease. Rather than relying on overt virtuosity, it requires the pianist to shape long phrases naturally and balance the deep bass with singing upper lines. The main challenges are keeping the music moving within a slow tempo and voicing rich harmonies without heaviness or blur. It demands refined control of tone, timing, and restrained emotional expression.