Rachmaninoff Prelude in G major Op. 32 No. 5

I had a good excuse to learn this beautiful piece. My horse Fritz (far right) mule-kicked my right hand a month ago, fracturing three metacarpals and requiring significant surgery—thanks again, Dr. Evans. Piano playing is some of the best physical therapy for this type of injury, so as soon as I was able, I learned Bach's B minor Prelude from WTC I, and next this gem from Rachmaninoff.

Both pieces ask the right hand for independence, but of different kinds. The Bach holds two voices in one hand, requiring sustained pitches, stretches, and finger substitutions, though at a tempo that lets you find them. The Rachmaninoff wants that same independence at speed and with a light touch, in the leggiero passages and the trills. My hand is still gaining strength, and not being able to rely on it has made me listen harder for the balance and voicing I’m after.