Introduction and Polonaise Brilliante, Op.3 for cello and piano by Frederic Chopin
Arranged by Emanuel Feuermann. Edited by Leonard Rose. 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 nearly all of Chopin's music was written with solo piano in mind, he also had an interest in the cello, the only other instrument for which he would write solo works of any significance. His works for cello appear at both ends of his career; the earliest one, "Introduction and Polonaise Brillante in C Major, Op.3" for cello and piano dates from 1829-30, before his years in Paris. This Polish dance was originally written with the piano skills of Princess Wanda Radziwill of Poznan in mind to play with her amateur cello father. Despite its humble beginnings, the once simple cello part is often embellished by virtuoso cellists to create a veritable showpiece. This International edition comes from an arrangement by Emanuel Feuermann. Master level, Grade 6.
