Solace

One of my favorite Scott Joplin songs is "Solace."


This guy does a pretty good job of how I interpret the piece.


Specifically, I love the D section of the piece, or I guess the final section, the conclusion. The way I like the D section is that the repeat is played a little slower, softer, somber, than the first time through is played. I use the una corda pedal (I think is what it's called, the one on the very left) to enhance that soft sound. Sometimes I'll also abuse the sustaining pedal as well with the repeat, playing through the entire section without letting the dampers fall so that ever single note rings the entire time. I like to imagine the combined effects of the pedals combined with the adjusted dynamics and tempo create a very eerie, forlorn feeling, but at the same time, the melody is indeed somewhat remorseful but carries a slightly uplifting undertone, and the entire piece ends on an inspiring, hopeful chord.

The song as a whole just comes together beautifully. It's not entirely happy, but it's not entirely depressing either. It's...a comforting song. Solace, as its appropriately titled. I love playing this piece when I'm feeling a little down.