Doctor Gradus ad Parnassum

A sparkling parody of finger exercises that also happens to be excellent technical work.

The playful opening of Children's Corner, it gently parodies Clementi's dry finger exercises while flowing as a shimmering Impressionist study, prized as an approachable Debussy showpiece.

Its relentless fast finger figuration and demand for evenness and stamina place it firmly at an advanced level.

• Keep the perpetual sixteenth-note figuration even, relaxed, and finger-light.
• Shape long crescendos gradually rather than pushing tempo forward.
• Voice the emerging melodic notes above the steady accompaniment texture.

It should sound playful, not like a dry technical drill.

Public-domain scores are usually available for this piece. Compare editions for fingering and layout before choosing one.

Public domain availability varies by country. Always confirm copyright rules where you live.