passage-work
English composer
Definition
Rapid scalar or arpeggiated figures requiring smooth thumb crossings, even tone, and fluid hand position changes. The bread-and-butter of Czerny's technical system.
Interpretive Guidance
In passage-work, the thumb must pass under without accenting or hesitating. Practise the thumb crossing in isolation: play the note before the crossing, then cross the thumb silently before the next note. The wrist should remain level and the arm should guide the hand through position changes without visible movement.