The arrangement presents several challenging aspects for the performer:

1. Hand Coordination: Measures 18-22 demand precise hand coordination, especially as the left-hand accompaniment frequently shifts while the right-hand melody must remain fluid.

2. Dynamics and Expression: Throughout the piece, dynamic contrasts are crucial (especially evident in measures 12-16). Achieving the appropriate soft and loud passages requires control.

3. Tempo and Rhythmic Stability: The piece is set at a tempo of 69 BPM, which can be deceptively slow, requiring steady rhythm and attention to detail, especially in phrase endings.

Techniques for Improvement

To address these challenges, performers should consider the following strategies:

• Dynamic Markings Study: Taking time to understand and practice the dynamic shifts from piano to forte will add an expressive quality to the performance.

• Metronome Use: Employing a metronome can help maintain a steady tempo, especially during transitional phrases that may otherwise lead to speed variations.

Focusing on the Challenges

Given the performance elements addressed, here are targeted practice suggestions:

1. Measure 6-10: Spend time emphasizing the rhythm. Clap out the rhythm separate from playing the notes to internalize the syncopation.

2. Measure 18-22: Isolate the hands. Start with the left hand, playing the chords slowly while allowing the melody to linger in your mind. Then, play the melody alone before combining both hands gradually.

3. Measure 12-16: Focus on playing with dynamics. Experiment with varying degrees of loudness and softness to express emotion effectively. Record yourself to evaluate if the dynamics come across as intended.

Building Technique

• Regular Warm-Ups: Develop finger dexterity and hand coordination by integrating scales and arpeggios into your daily practice routine.

• Musical Interpretation: Work with together recordings or collaborate with a pianist to understand musical phrasing and interpretation; this adds a layer of musicality that sheet music alone cannot convey.

Sheet Music Analysis of "If You Go Away"

"If You Go Away," composed by Jacques Brel with English lyrics by Rod McKuen and arranged by Phillip Keveren, features distinct musical attributes that contribute to its emotional depth.

Structure and Harmony

The piece is primarily structured in C Major with a 3/4 time signature, allowing for a flowing and lyrical presentation typical of waltz. The chord progression predominantly follows the I-IV-V structure, creating a sense of familiarity and comfort. Notably, from measures 12-15, a shift into a minor tonality creates tension, enhancing the emotional impact of the lyrics.

Rhythmic Patterns

The rhythms are characterized by a gentle undulating quality. For example, in measures 6-10, the use of dotted rhythms provides a lilting, expressive feel that complements the lyrical delivery. The main melodic phrase alternates between syncopated rhythms and sustained notes, seen through the repeated phrases of C5 and B4, which effectively convey longing and introspection.

Melodic Features

The melody often features embellishments, such as grace notes and passing tones, particularly around measures 5-7 and 20-22, providing color and nuance to the principal melodic line. Additionally, the melodic sections often overlap with chordal harmonies, particularly in measures 25-30, emphasizing the interconnectedness of the melody and accompaniment.

If You Go Away

• Artist
  Jacques Brel/Rod McKuen
• Number of imitations:
  178
• Genre
  Jacques Brel/Rod McKuen
• Key
  C
• Tempo
  69
• Pages
  4
• Notation
  Jacques Brel/Rod McKuen
• Compose
  French Words and Music by JACQUES BREL English Words by ROD McKUEN Arranged by Phillip Keveren
• Introduction
  If You Go Away' - French Words and Music by JACQUES BREL English Words by ROD McKUEN Arranged by Phillip Keveren, This music is undefined, arr. by Jacques Brel/Rod McKuen, Suitable for all students to learn