The Diary
of
Anne Ku

21 April 2001 Saturday

PIANO RITUAL

It's the weekend. Like other normal people, I should treat this as my day off. No lists. No appointments. I should just do what I want to do. But, to get there, first I need to do the laundry, the dishes, and clear/clean up all that's in my way.

After two hours of running around, I've had enough. I sat on the piano stool and warmed up with the major scales. Up and down. Up and down. Then I sightread some new pieces I bought or borrowed.

A piano transcription of Cesar Franck's Prelude, Fugue et Variation opus 18 grabbed my attention. I had found it in a second-hand store for just 40 pence. French editions are normally more expensive than others - and obviously this one was underpriced. Originally written for the organ, this transcription is nevertheless very fitting and beautiful. It's been awhile that I sightread and then re-read until I get it right. This one deserves the extra practice.

Franck's piece reminded me of an earlier piece I had practised for the diploma recital that I never gave. It felt good to pound out the octave progressions and cause thunder and lightning in the neighbourhood. I pulled out that piece - Prelude, Chorale, and Fugue for the piano.

Two hours later, I still have not had enough. In between the loads of laundry, I found Camille Saint-Saens' Danse Macabre - piano transcription - plus other works. I kept playing until I grew weak with hunger. Four hours at the piano - and I finally did what I wanted, on this Saturday afternoon.

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