The tempo marking off all the Nocturnes, except “No. 12” also fall under this category, as they are crafted in binary form utilizing the “A–B–A–B–A” form. 16,” as neither has contrasting sections. Some Nocturnes do not feature the ternary form, noticeably “No. Although Chopin published them as contrasting pairs, each of them has enough musical ornaments to be considered as complete works. The main theme is repeated throughout the nocturnes, adding elaborate embellishments, especially Nocturnes “No. They offer a distinct, melancholic melody that floats over broken chords and arpeggios played using the left hand. The clash between such agitation and tunefulness is evident in most pieces, although some Nocturnes do offer a vague cantabile.Ĭhopin’s nocturnes are generally set in “A-B-A” (ternary form), although keys and meters may vary. The middle sections offer a violent contrast, an animated and dramatic action. The outer sections of these pieces are tuneful and lyrical, dwelling on a typical mood. The majority of the Nocturnes, when assessed through their form, can be compared to an “aria” with ornamental reprise (tripartite reprise form). The extensive usage of pedal enabled him to garner sustained notes, resulting in more emotional expressions, it’s own prominent aura. Like Field, Chopin also aggressively used the pedal. Another noticeable characteristic is the usage of “necessity,” a nocturne where the left hand is used to play broken chords which act as the melody’s rhythm. Chopin’s usage of the melody similar to vocals created a palpable emotional depth, enticing the listener. It is a crucial characteristic of the nocturne. One stark similarity is the utilization of a melody resembling a song in the right hand.
He termed Chopin a “sickroom talent” after meeting and listening to his compositions.Ĭhopin’s masterpiece evokes multiple similarities when compared to Field’s, but retains their own unique, distinct melody. Chopin personally respected Field, considering him as a primary influence in his musical journey. Before Chopin first met Field, he had already composed five of them.Ĭhopin was compared to Field in his youth, while the latter was often termed “Chopinesque.” Contemporary composers like Friedrich Kalkbrenner even inquired whether Field was Chopin’s music teacher. He was specifically influenced by the Irishman’s playing and composing technique, which became more evident as he started crafting the Nocturnes. A young Chopin quickly became an ardent follower. HistoryĬhopin was born in 1810, when John Field was already an established music composer. He built on the legacy developed by John Field, the Irish composer who created the form. Frédéric Chopin didn’t invent the nocturne, but he played an important role in expanding and popularizing it. 21,” wasn’t even titled as “Nocturne.” However, since it was published using the same title, it is included with recordings and publications of the collection.
They were eventually published posthumously. However, he had actually started off with “No.
18” was published in batches of twos/threes during Chopin’s lifetime following the order of composition. It is considered as one of the best solo works for piano in the history of concert repertoire, cementing its place among the finest. “Nocturnes” by Frédéric Chopin is a collection of 21 pieces crafted for solo piano from 1827 spanning to 1846.