Making Large Jumps on the Piano

Hi,I am having trouble making large leaps across the piano, especially when playing a fast piece. I am trying to play Franz Liszt's Liebestraum no.3 which requires me to make some fast leaps with both of my hands at the same time. Are there any tips or things I should keep in mind when making these jumps across the piano?

ANSWER

Here are a couple of ideas:

1. Muscle memory--practice each hand separately and VERY slowly so as to allow your muscles to "remember" the distance. The try to play the jump without looking at your hand. You may want to let the hand with the easier jump "remember" so that you can concentrate your eyes on the hand with the more difficult task.

2.Preparation--Be sure that your fingers are in a position that allow your hand to be as close to the new notes as possible. "Prepare" for the new notes by getting your hand ready beforehand. For example, if the new notes are a large distance apart, expand your hand BEFORE making the jump.

Hope this gives you some ideas!
Lynne