Follow me as I embark on a journey to listen to all of Chopin's compositions!

Monday, May 3, 2010

Etude no.12 - Op.10 no.12: C-minor

Recording by Richter

It is fitting that the last etude of this opus should be the most dynamic. This is one of the most famous, if not THE most famous Chopin etude of all time. (It was my text message alert for the longest time.)

It starts out with a booming G7 chord that is unforgettable. The left hand plays rapid sixteenth notes throughout the entire piece, while the melody is strongly emphasized with the use of octaves and chords (not just single notes). The etude would definitely not have the force that it carries were it not for the purposeful, careful use of dynamics which enhance the melody.

No comments:

Post a Comment