Good Finger Exercises
What would you say are the best studies for plain finger work?
The exercises of "Pischna" are to be recommended. They have appeared in two editions, of which one is abridged. They are known as the "large" and the "small Pischna." You may obtain them through any large music house, I think, in the Steingräber Edition.
The Value of Heller's Studies
Are Heller's studies practical for a young student lacking in rhythm and expression?
Yes, they are very good, provided the teacher insists that the pupil plays exactly what is indicated and does not merely "come near it."
Good Intermediate Books of Etudes
Living in the country, where there is no teacher available, I would thank you for telling me what Etudes I ought to study. I have finished those by Cramer and Moscheles, and can play them well, but find those by Chopin too difficult. Are there no intermediate works?
You seem to be fond of playing Etudes. Well, then, I suggest:
"Twelve Etudes for Technique and Expression," by Edmund Neupert.