Performance Tips

Langsam (slowly)

From the beginning for five measures, various words are added: einsam (lonely), etwas eilend (somewhat hurrying), wieder ruhig (again calmly), and leidend aber sehr langsam (suffering but very slowly). From these notations, it is clear that Yamada demands not only variations in tempo but also shifts in emotional states from the performer. For example, at measure 9, 'etwas eilend' (somewhat hurrying), and at the following measure 10 with the same melodic shape, 'etwas beschleunigend' (slightly accelerating) – even with similar accelerando elements, it is crucial for the performer to perceive the difference in nuance and articulate them with sensitivity.

From measure 27, the expression is one of 'disappointment' and 'helplessness.' Express a sense of exhaustion by relaxing and avoiding a harsh sound. While the left hand has an accompaniment pattern like a trudging walk, the right hand features rapid movements such as 32nd notes, septuplets, and ornaments. It would be beneficial to link this with the image of movement derived from the phrase 'throwing or trampling on plants.'

In this way, by relying on the words Yamada left in the score and fully aligning with the movements and emotional states, the performance will likely become vivid and expressive.

Regarding pedaling, there are minimal indications, but pedals are certainly necessary even where not indicated. Each performer should explore how to blend the sounds and experiment with various possibilities. Furthermore, the fermatas above bar lines, which Yamada frequently uses in other pieces, might sometimes result in silence, or the preceding sound might be sustained. What is important, I believe, is the flow of time. Consider what kind of time will be etched (whether it stops abruptly or if the previous moment continues).