That s definitely the correct tempo. Alkan played on a Pleyel reason why it can be fast. It’s not playable that fast on a classic piano but it can be a good challenge. Alkan knew that reason why he noted : In a good movement - determined. He means as fast as possible but keep the tempo clean. Then named it « le preux » which means « The Brave ».
When you’re actually playing it on a piano it’s easier than it looks. Relax your fingers, and in the soft parts use your wrist, in the loud parts use your arm power. If you’re only using your fingers to provide the power, you WILL get tired doing this.
@Ra Tatum That part indicates left hand should continue octave passage speed while you deal with very large-scale arpeggio. It's 'physically' impossible to play at that speed and neatly using human hand.
Matthew Hammans I forgot about this. The only reason I stopped before finding this again was the hand crossing section, but I know I can do it. I’ll go find the music again.
It is an acquired beauty (the robotic sound comes from the MIDI which really sucks). There are some very pretty passages and while the piece is near impossible it's not impossible.
Why not? I can see the beauty behind the arpeggios and octave passages. Imagine the knight while listening and you will likely to be fascinated with the perfect expression of knight.
