Nocturne in E-flat Major, Op.9, No. 2 for cello and piano by Frederic Chopin
Edited and transcribed by David Popper. Published by International
Frederic Chopin (1810-1849) was one of the most important composers of the Romantic Era. Born in Warsaw, he left before Poland's 1830 uprising and settled in Paris, where his piano music captivated attendees of his salon concerts. He gained fame and admiration for his music's rich, colorful harmony, Italianate bel canto melody, and mellifluous textures. Though influenced by Mozart and Bach, he also introduced Polish folk music to the concert hall in the form of mazurkas, polonaises, and ballades. Today, his music forms the core of the classical piano repertory, especially his preludes and nocturnes.
Though Chopin did not invent the nocturne (that honor goes to Irish composer John Field), he elevated it to higher levels of sophistication. The Romantic piano nocturne is tranquil and expressive, evoking a serenading vocalist with gentle, expansive cantabile melody over a simple accompaniment. Chopin imbued the form with bel canto-style lyricism and a freely-flowing sense of rhythm and rubato. His Nocturne in E-flat Major, Op.9/2 is his most beloved work in the form, presented here in a beautiful transcription for cello and piano by David Popper. Advanced level, Grade 5.
