Waltz in A-flat major, Op. 42 (Chopin)

Chopin, 1835

Waltz in A-flat major, Op. 42, is a lively waltz composed by Frédéric Chopin in 1840.^[1]

Background

Though none of Chopin's works were actually intended to be danced to,^[2] this waltz does appear to be appropriate for use in the ballroom. It is often considered to be one of the finest and most perfect of Chopin's many waltzes.^[1]

Analysis

First theme (Schirmer 1894, ed. Karol Mikuli)

The piece begins with an eight-bar introductory trill on the dominant, calling for the dance to begin. The opening melody of the work is light and in duple time, it is accompanied with a 3/4 left hand accompaniment. This waltz contains many virtuosic passages and a mesmerizing coda, making it a favourite for every audience. It is often considered one of Chopin's most important waltzes but is also one of the most challenging to play.^[1]^[3]^[4]

Appreciation

U.S. President Harry S. Truman, an amateur pianist, told friends that Chopin's Waltz in A-flat major was one of his favorite compositions.^[5]

References

External links

Valse in A-flat major, Op. 42 at Allmusic
Waltz in A-flat major, Op. 42: Scores at the International Music Score Library Project
Waltz in A-flat major, Op. 42 on YouTube, performed by Yundi Li

Waltzes by Frédéric Chopin

Grande valse brillante in E-flat major, Op. 18 3 Waltzes, Op. 34 Waltz in A-flat major, Op. 42 Waltz in D-flat major, Op. 64, No. 1 (Minute) Waltz in C-sharp minor, Op. 64, No. 2 Waltz in A-flat major, Op. 64, No. 3 Waltz in A-flat major, Op. 69, No. 1 (Farewell) Waltz in B minor, Op. 69, No. 2 3 Waltzes, Op. posth. 70 Waltz in E minor, Op. posth. Waltz in E major, Op. posth. Waltz in A minor, Op. posth.

Études Mazurkas Nocturnes Polonaises Waltzes List of compositions by Frédéric Chopin by genre List of compositions by Frédéric Chopin by opus number

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