Hello,

I'm thinking of learning the first movement of Szymanowski's Piano Sonata no. 1. It looks very difficult and is not a very popular choice (I think it's regarded as a rather academic composition). I would love to hear your views if you have performed this piece.

Thanks

That is one belter of a piece ! And don't think it is even half as hard as the 2nd Sonata. Well worth the considerable effort, I think, if you're drawn to it (which I guess you are, or you would not even contemplate doing it). It does not seem academic to me, more like full-blooded - if a little overblown - late romantic with all the right examples (Liszt, Chopin, Brahms, Strauss).

Yes, it is awfully difficult. I'm not sure I'm going to be able to learn it (I'm still on page 1). If there's not much progress in the next few days I'll give it up. Thanks.

Sure, don't be a nut about success. If you don't succeed at first, give up
Seriously, if you really really want to play a piece, compulsively so, you can do more than you think. It will take time, and require much persistance and hard work. Not sure if this is one of these pieces though. You have to be in love with it.