Emotional Expression and Performance Technique Training of Rachmaninoff's Prelude in C-sharp Minor

The purpose of this paper is to analyse the emotional expression and performance skills required for Rachmaninoff's Prelude in C-sharp minor. Rachmaninoff is a famous Russian romantic composer, conductor, and piano player. Among the 24 preludes he wrote, Prelude in C-sharp minor holds particular significance, having been created when Rachmaninoff graduated from the Moscow Conservatory of Music. An in-depth analysis and study of this work will help us better understand the feelings he intended to express and improve our playing skills. This paper briefly introduces Rachmaninoff's life experience and determines the emotional tone of his works by analysing the background of his works and the characteristics of Russian folk music, to help us better grasp the emotions contained in his works. In terms of performance skill training, this paper mainly expounds on the key chords and octaves, the fast triplet in the middle, the rapid alternation of hands, and syntax. Finally, this paper summarises all aspects of understanding the Prelude in C-sharp minor and offers some inspiration and suggestions to performers, including an in-depth understanding of the emotions the composer intended to express through the emotional changes in each paragraph. Attention is given to the performance of music and the training methods for playing techniques. Through this brief analysis of the emotional expression and performance skills required for Rachmaninoff's Prelude in C-sharp minor, this paper aims to provide a useful reference for music learners and enthusiasts, helping them overcome difficulties in the emotional expression and technical performance of this work.