So once again, I've failed to stick with my practicing schedule. I've realized (again?) that when I'm playing more (at least 1-2 hours a day), I feel 'happier'. Maybe when I'm playing, my mind's focused on the art and not all the bullshit that's going on with this world. Life in general. That I can at least pretend that all of it is but a figment. Anyway, I've started to play again and [once again] am trying to commit to a strict practice schedule. It's true that one has no shot of improving if he doesn't practice. I've decided to learn Schumann's Kinderscenen, Op. 15. I don't see myself performing with this piece anytime soon...but I do find this piece rather intriguing. And I guess that's all that matters. Oh, and I'll start posting my practice notes on this piano blog/journal during or after each practice session.

Today, I played throught pieces 1-8 (there are 13 total) and most of them are not technically-advanced, IMO. Well, of course, the hardest part is playing it expressively--but also, of course, without overdoing it (a charge that I admit I'm guilty of at times). Interesting how the melody in No. 1 and No.4 are remarkably similar and the left hand motions are contrary between No. 1 and No. 4. The upward trajectory of the left hand in No. 1 connotes a sense of reverie (despite that being the title of No. 7--otherwise known as "traumerei" in German)...while the downward motion of No. 4 stresses trickling down of teardrops? Emphasis on the A-C-D-A...probably doesn't mean anything.

My sprained fourth finger is still bothering me...