A structural and practice-strategy analysis of Serge Rachmaninoff's Prelude Op. 23, No. 4 in D major from the pianist's perspective

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to discuss and analyze Rachmaninoff’s Prelude op. 23, no. 4 in D Major and present a performer’s guide outlining challenges and effective practice strategies for the work. Key topics covered included: 1. a biography of Rachmaninoff, 2. tonal and formal structures in Rachmaninoff’s Prelude op. 23, no. 4, 3. musical and physical gestures used in Prelude op. 23, no. 4, and 4. performance practice. Regarding performance practice, the investigator presented challenges faced when learning Prelude op. 23, no. 4 and detailed practicing strategies essential to overcoming these difficulties. Finally, the study concluded by outlining the investigator’s personal experiences and daily practice routines for learning Rachmaninoff’s Prelude op. 23, no. 4, and suggesting that pianists may benefit from applying such techniques when studying the work.