Hi all-
I'm an 11th Grader in the states studying for my DipABRSM in Piano Performance. Once of the pieces I'm learning is Schubert's Impromptu in G-Flat Op.90 No. 3. It's an absolutely gorgeous piece, but I'm a little concerned about the coloring of the top and middle (arpeggiated) voices.
How stark should the difference in dynamic between the top and middle voice be? How do you all interpret that? Is the middle voice wispy and blurred, or should those notes also be distinct?
Can anyone recommend some good ways to practice the coloring of the piece? Or at least some ideas about it?

Thanks

Hello Mahesh, I have played all the Schubert Impromptus for many years.
There are many different interpretations of the G flat on record, my preferred one is an old Sviatoslav Richter one.
My view is that the rippling inner part should be quite subdued and legato, and the top line well defined. It is after all a 'tune' with an accompaniment, ,like a Mendelssohnian 'Song without Words'.
However dont over pedal it because that does tend to make it sound rather muddy (some editions murder the pedalling)

D899 No 3 is a lovely work, though a very common choice for DipABRSM.

I agree with fsharpminor, the top line should be prominent but lyrical - imagine a soprano singing this. The middle voice provides the harmony and momentum but each note should not be distinct. The bass line should not be neglected - make sure it supports the other two and has direction.

Be aware of the structure of the piece and don't just play through it blindly. Make good use of all the dynamic markings. Keep your fingers close to the keys when playing the middle voice to keep it less prominent. Watch out of the danger spots where quick changes in hand position occur. Be careful with pedalling to prevent blurring during changes of harmony.

Good luck!