A pedagogical approach to the formulation of fingering options for selected piano works of Debussy, Scriabin, Rachmaninoff, Ravel, Bartók, and Prokofiev : a practice-led study

Abstract

This thesis is an investigation of piano fingering that can be applied to the practical study of problematic technical material and musical content in selected piano works of Debussy, Scriabin, Rachmaninoff, Ravel, Bartók, and Prokofiev. The appropriate and practical application of piano fingering forms the basis of a sustainable virtuoso piano technique. Most available literature relating to the domain of piano fingering only addresses the basic application thereof. This study aims to present and discuss effective approaches to the formulation of fingering options necessary to surmount musical and pianistic obstacles.

Primary data was collected through the researcher’s practical study of the selected piano works, as suggested by the practice-led research design. The main objective was to devise fingering options that complement the composer’s indicated musical and pianistic intentions. Additionally, the influence of hand sizes on the appropriate choice of fingering was also investigated. When necessary, secondary movements produced by the wrist and forearms, which complement the suggested fingering options, were discussed.

Taxing pianistic figurations and musical content can successfully be mastered by the employment of proper fingering. Various fingering possibilities should be investigated before deciding on the desired combinations. A thorough study of fingering at the onset of learning new repertoire is essential to achieve freedom in artistic interpretation and technical finesse.