How to Play “Mentre dormi amor” by Vivaldi on Piano (2 Levels, Free)

Listen and play: 2 levels

About the piece

Mentre dormi amor is a lyrical aria from the opera L'Olimpiade, composed by Antonio Vivaldi in 1734. It is a stunning example of the Italian Baroque style, characterized by its flowing, expressive melody and elegant structure.

This piece is a wonderful choice for piano students looking to develop their sense of phrasing and musicality. Because it was originally written for voice and orchestra, the melody requires a smooth, singing touch on the piano.

Which level should you choose?

• Right hand only: the vocal melody alone, focusing on expressiveness and gentle note transitions. Ideal for getting used to the graceful tempo.
• Both hands: the complete arrangement, where the left hand provides a delicate harmonic accompaniment. Best once you feel confident with the melody.

Fingering and hand position

Because this piece features lyrical, flowing lines, it is important to keep your hands relaxed and fluid. Let your fingers rest naturally on the keys, allowing your wrist to remain supple to follow the contours of the melody.

Avoid sharp or staccato movements. Aim to connect each note to the next as smoothly as possible, mimicking the legato style of a singer. Focus on maintaining a consistent hand position while using your thumb and pinky to comfortably reach necessary intervals.

Practice tips

• Listen to the recording a few times to internalize the flow of the music.
• Use the Rhythm mode and start at a slow speed, like 50 percent, to ensure your note placement is precise.
• Divide the piece into shorter segments or phrases and practice them individually until they sound polished.
• Keep your focus on the screen and the falling notes, allowing the finger indicators to guide your placement without looking down.

Learn it step by step

To master this piece, begin by focusing solely on the right hand melody to capture the mood and rhythm. Practice one phrase at a time, ensuring each note transitions smoothly into the next.

Once the melody is fluid, introduce the left hand accompaniment at a very slow pace. Focus on the coordination between your two hands. Finally, gradually increase the speed until you reach the intended musical flow.

Frequently asked questions