By Dr. Nancy Allred
Featuring practice tips for:
Waltz in C-sharp Minor, Op. 64, No. 2 (m. 84)
Nocturne in E Minor, Op. 72, No. 1 (mm. 34, 35, 37)
Ornamental passages in Chopin’s piano music add a beautiful element that is probably unmatched in the piano repertoire. These passages display Chopin’s love of singing, and bring a serene vocal quality to his hauntingly beautiful compositions.
In the famous Waltz in C-sharp Minor, Op. 64, No, 2, there is an “8 against 3” rhythm in the piu lento section, m. 84. When a student first encounters this type of a cross rhythm it can be very confusing. Initially, I have them match the RH and LH and change the “8” eighth notes into groups of 2 and 3 per beat.
The steps outlined below give more detail into how the rhythm of “8 against 3” can fit together in this beautiful piece by Chopin. My preference for the following is the 2 + 3 + 3. In fact, I listened to several performances on YouTube in preparing for this segment, and found that most concert pianists also chose the 2 + 3 + 3 in their interpretation of this passage.
The key in all of these ornamental passages is after the initial “strict” execution of the RH-LH rhythm, then one must through musicality and freedom, infuse the passage with beauty and style. With this freedom, it will sound like “8 against 3”, not 2 + 3 + 3. And that will come with practice, and listening, and letting go!
Waltz in C-sharp Minor, Op. 64, No. 2 – Frederic Chopin
Measure 84
1. Listen
· Listen to as many recordings/performances as possible.
· Compare various performances of the “8 against 3” motive.
· Make decisions as to interpretation of the “8 against 3” motive.
2. Definite Rhythm
· Practice the motive with definite rhythm for the “8 against 3” motive:
o Play the RH in groups of 2 and 3 per beat, matching the LH quarter notes on the beat.
o Three options for the groups of 2 and 3 per beat:
2 + 3 + 3
3 + 2 + 3
3 + 3 + 2
3. Relaxed Rhythm
It is advantageous to practice all three options, and then choose the most preferred. Continue to practice diligently to gain security, and then work toward making the “8 against 3” motive relaxed and free. Internalize, enjoy, and make beautiful music!
Nocturne in E Minor, Op. 72, No. 1 – Frederic Chopin
Measures 34, 35, 37
Use the same steps as above
1. Listen
2. Definite Rhythm
3. Relaxed Rhythm
Measure 34
2 + 3 + 3
3 + 2 + 3
3 + 3 + 2
Measure 35
Three options:
1. Play a simple trill on the A# which adds 2 notes at the beginning of the 10 notes (A#-B) which can then be played as 12 notes, and makes the passages 4 notes in the RH to each note in the LH.
2. Play a fast trill or turn (alternating between A#-B) and then play the rest of the notes up to the top B.
3. Play the trill prior to the beat, as 2 grace notes (A#-B), and then play the 10 notes up to the top B.
3 + 3 + 4 (this is my preference)
3 + 4 + 3
4 + 3 + 3
Measure 37
3 + 4 + 4
4 + 3 + 4
4 + 4 + 3
Outline: Ornamental Passages in Chopin's Piano Music
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