I am used to an accurate indication of note strength in my teaching and performing work. (By this I mean in any sequence of notes or chords, whether some particular note should be played louder or softer in relation to the previous and the following note, and by how much).

After I moved to America I can not find here anybody with whom I can discuss my concerns regarding dynamics, phrasing and articulation of some tricky spots. Because people around me say that they “can think and play only musical phrases” but they have no idea about “musical words” these phrases are made of.

I will be very glad to hear from or about somebody who knows this way to think in music and can suggest the best way to perform.

Today my concern is in the very first bars of “For Elise” by Beethoven. Which note should be played stronger (louder) in the Left Hand: the very first bass A or the second note E? I will appreciate any opinion expressed.

Vladimir Dounin