Which one would you...?

Question

PLEASE DON'T OFFEND. I am looking for advice, NOT debate or criticism.

I am given a choice by my teacher. I am to play one of the pieces from the Miroirs suite by Ravel or Ondine from Gaspard de la nuit. Which one would be a wise choice? because I love all of them and I want to choose one that demonstrates expression and a level of virtuosity; one that will be a serious part of my repertoire in the future because these pieces are difficult and are gonna take me soooooo much time. I would appreciate it if you explain your reasoning.

Answer 1

Ondine is one of the most difficuult pieces in the active repertoir -- a real knucklebuster. If you played Prokofiev's Tocatta (I think you mentioned that in a previous post) you wil find that it is much more difficult -- and Scarbo is even harder (at least to me :-) ).

But it meets your requirements -- demonstration of expressiveness and a level of viruosity.

Miroirs is not so physically challenging, but still a ton of work to master. I personally would work my way up -- you may not realize how demanding Ondine can be.

I think you have excellent taste in music. Nothing shows off the piano's capabilities like Ravel.

Um - have you taken a look at Debussy's "l'Isle Joyeuse"?

Answer 2

Which one do you practice first? In my experience, pupils usually start with the one they like best, and they will play it well just because they like it. On the other hand, the one they leave to last is the one they find hardest, but because they have to work at it, that piece is often the one they will remember best of all

Answer 3

Wow, I always admire talent!!! I have no idea which one to choose but I just want to say good luck to you in your future playing!