24 Préludes, Op. 28 (Frédéric Chopin)

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Source: Frédéric Chopin, by Hugo Leichtentritt. (J. S. Preuss, Berlin, 1905)

Frédéric Chopin. 24 Préludes, Op. 28.

… The 24 Préludes in all major and minor keys, op. 28, can be placed among Chopin’s best compositions. In the piano literature, also, the works have a special position. They represent something quite new in the prelude form. One naturally thinks first of Bach’s preludes, but these are essentially different: as they are introductory pieces in polyphonic style, and often with a larger design. After Bach, the prelude entered a fallow period; for example, the works by Clementi in this form can hardly be taken seriously. Chopin’s Préludes are mostly small sketches, and are not conceived as introductions to another work. Each piece stands on its own. They are however best played in series — the composer wisely gave them a sequential order, so that each work is placed to its particular advantage. In their variety of moods, precision of expression, and sharpness of design, all offer something astonishing. In sheer musical richness, also, in harmonic newness and special resonance [Klangzauber] – these bear witness to a creative fantasy, a knowledge of the piano’s potential, that are very unique in their nature and effect. The finest subtleties of piano composition are revealed. [ … ]

(Translation by Edward Eggleston)

Recordings:

A search with the terms “Chopin” and “Préludes” in the Hoopla system offers 29 results. In these results, most recordings contain the entire set of pieces, and the roster of performers is exceptional. Please note that although Homewood Library offers Hoopla services, this is not true for all public libraries in the Jefferson County AL system.

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