My Life is Going On - Cecilia Krull

Technical Difficulties

1. Syncopation: The right-hand features many instances of syncopated rhythms, especially noticeable in measures 15-18. This requires careful counting and rhythmic precision to execute cleanly.

2. Dynamic Control: The piece demands a nuanced control of dynamics; for example, the transition from soft to loud in measures 43-46 can be particularly challenging for less experienced players.

3. Complex Chord Voicings: The left hand, especially in measures 26-29, introduces complex chord voicings that may require hands to move swiftly between positions without sacrificing clarity.

Quantitative Difficulty Analysis

• Measures 15-18: Syncopation requires strong rhythmic awareness.
• Measures 43-46: Requires dynamic building and nuanced touch; level of difficulty rated as advanced.
• Measures 26-29: Voicing challenges requiring familiarity with left-hand chord positioning; moderate difficulty.

To master the performance challenges identified, consider the following practical tips:

1. Isolate Difficult Sections: Focus on measures that present rhythmic complexities. For instance, practice measures 15-18 slowly using a metronome. Gradually increase speed while maintaining rhythmic integrity.

2. Dynamic Exploration: Use hands-on dynamics practice for measures 43-46. Implement the practice of playing the passage at different dynamic levels (piano, mezzoforte, forte) to internalize dynamics intuitively.

3. Chord Voicings: For measures 26-29, break down the left-hand parts by practicing chord shapes separately. Start by playing slowly to ensure clarity, then combine with the right hand once comfortable.

4. Hands Separately: Especially helpfully for complex passages, practicing each hand separately will aid in cultivating the necessary muscle memory required for seamless performance.

5. Repetition and Consistency: Consistent daily practice focusing on more challenging sections will foster improvement over time. Set specific goals for each practice session to maintain focus.

By identifying specific challenges within "My Life is Going On" and implementing targeted practice strategies, players can significantly enhance their performance skills, leading to a more fulfilling execution of this evocative piece.

Musical Analysis

Unique Features: The song "My Life is Going On," originally composed by Cecilia Krull, is structured in D Major and set to a 4/4 time signature, giving it a steady, march-like feel. At a tempo of 100 BPM, the piece is accessible yet emotive, making it appealing to a wide audience. The score features a combination of legato and staccato playing, with the use of various rhythmic patterns that elevate its character.

Harmonic Progression

Throughout the piece, harmonic motion centers around the primary chords I (D), IV (G), and V (A). The use of secondary dominants (e.g., A7 before D) creates tension and resolves beautifully. This can be particularly noticed in the measures around 49-56, where the return of the tonic chord emphasizes the emotional impact, making it ideal for expressive playing.

Rhythm and Texture

Notably, there are moments of syncopation and use of different rhythmic subdivisions which enrich the piece's texture. For example, measures 15-18 utilize a mix of quarter and eighth notes that keep the listener engaged. The left-hand part predominantly sustains a bass line with quarter notes while the right-hand weaves through syncopated melodies and decorative elements.

Specific Measures of Interest

• Measures 8-12: Introduction of the main motif, characterized by the alternating notes and use of tied notes, which creates a feeling of continuity.
• Measures 35-42: The incorporation of dynamic contrasts enhances the interpretation, with crescendos leading to powerful chordal strikes.

My Life is Going On

• Artist
  Cecilia Krull
• Number of imitations:
  73
• Genre
  Cecilia Krull
• Key
  D
• Tempo
  100
• Pages
  4
• Notation
  Cecilia Krull
• Compose
  Cecilia Krull
• Introduction
  My Life is Going On' - Cecilia Krull, This music is undefined, arr. by Cecilia Krull, Suitable for all students to learn