Relaxing hands after leaps and stretches

Hi! 

I am really struggling with this one... although I am getting better. I am currently approaching this very methodically, think, ATTACK, relax...  repeat ad nauseam... it's a slow and arduous process... but it works to a degree.

I have been studying with my current teacher for a year, who does wonders with my anxiety, but I still struggle.

I have been playing since I was 5 with a few breaks. I am 51 now, and have a degree in music. I also teach piano to 19 wonderful students.  BUT my inability to relax and my anxiety really hinder my progress with more advanced repertoire, especially when it comes to playing faster pieces. 

I currently am working on Schubert's Impromptu #3 Op 142. The first theme has some awkward fingerings that have odd stretches. I am practicing nice and slow trying to relax in between, while maintaining legato in the voicing. But once I try to accelerate, my hands tighten up and my shoulders go up. Ugh!

Any advice? :-)

Please dont say eat bananas... I am not a fan! LOL


THANKS!
Denise

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    • Kerstin
    • Kerstin
    • 1 yr ago
    • Reported - view

    Hi Denise! Do you mean the first variation? I have the score at home and looked at it. I think fingering is important and also I would try to play in tempo short parts - 4 sixteenth + 1. You know what I mean? 

    LG Kerstin

    Reply Like
      • Denise
      • Educator
      • Denise
      • 1 yr ago
      • Reported - view

      Kerstin Yes! I meant first variation, sorry... I am currently practicing the right hand melody legato with the middle 16th notes lightly staccato so i can release the hand up to last note in the grouping, And yes, I am being very strict on fingering.  I am playing quickly then holding on the beat. I think that's what you mean?  Thank you for your feedback.  It's a slow process, because my hand tightens up a lot.

      Reply Like
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