Happy New Year! May this year bring you peace and tranquility!
As the new year begins, I’ve been thinking about what kind of pieces I should work on for MIDI sequencing this year.
1. Piano Sonata by Beethoven
I’m currently working on the sound design for Beethoven’s Piano Sonata No. 29, the Hammerklavier. Under the guidance of my strict musical advisor, I’ve been progressing in the order of the third movement, fourth movement, first movement, and then the second movement. This piece is considered one of the greatest piano compositions ever written, and I hope I can manage to complete it successfully.
Actually, I had already worked on Sonatas No. 30, 31, and 32 at the beginning of these MIDI sequencing lessons. A few years ago, my advisor’s recital featured these three late Beethoven sonatas as the main pieces, so I took on the challenge—though with great humility. However, listening to them now, I realize there are still many areas that need improvement.
2. Stringed Instruments
Last year, I worked on Beethoven’s Kreutzer Violin Sonata and his Cello Sonata No. 3. Through this process, I came to realize the deep complexity of sequencing solo string instruments—it’s a challenge well worth studying.
In addition, between my Hammerklavier lessons, I sequenced the string ensemble piece Albinoni’s Adagio as a way to study the balance between different instrumental parts.
This year, I plan to sequence several pieces that truly showcase the beauty of the cello. One of them is Schubert’s Arpeggione Sonata, the piece that initially inspired me to take up the cello. For some reason, it’s a mysterious piece that I feel an irresistible urge to listen to from time to time.
I also plan to work on Elgar’s Cello Concerto in E minor, Op. 85. This piece is famously associated with the passionate performances of the late Jacqueline du Pré, and its opening cadenza immediately draws the listener into its world. Figuring out how to sequence this section effectively will be a fascinating challenge.
Another captivating piece is Schumann’s Cello Concerto in A minor, Op. 129. Instead of focusing on symphonic works this year, I’ve decided to sequence sonatas and concertos that truly highlight the beauty of string instruments. These are all pieces far beyond my ability to perform, but with DTM, I can at least bring them to life in a way that matches my vision.
That said, working on large-scale compositions alone can be quite demanding, so I might also take on some beautiful shorter cello pieces from time to time.
I am not sure what will happen.