Frédéric Chopin’s Etude in C-sharp minor, Op. 10 No. 4 is a thrilling masterpiece from one of the greatest composers for the piano. Known for his ability to evoke deep emotion while also demanding incredible technical prowess, Chopin revolutionised piano music in the early 19th century. His etudes, or ‘studies’, were originally designed to develop a pianist’s technique, but they are so much more than exercises - they are works of profound artistry, loved and admired by audiences for their passion, intensity, and lyrical beauty.
The Etude in C-sharp minor is part of Chopin’s Op. 10 collection, written when he was only in his early twenties and it remains a stunning example of how Chopin combined technical brilliance with expressive power. This particular etude is often referred to as the ‘Torrent Etude’ because of its breathtaking speed and the continuous flood of notes that rush through the piece like a raging current. From the first moment, listeners are drawn into a whirlwind of cascading arpeggios, rapid-fire passages, and sharp dynamic contrasts, all of which create a thrilling sense of urgency and drama. The music moves quickly, but behind its virtuosity is a deep emotional core, revealing moments of tension, restlessness, and even melancholy.
For a pianist like Anna Lipiak, performing this etude is both a technical challenge and an opportunity to convey the emotional depth of Chopin’s music. Known for her extraordinary precision, musical sensitivity, and captivating stage presence, Anna Lipiak brings the perfect combination of skill and artistry to this piece. The rapid runs and intricate finger work of this etude demand the highest level of control, yet the pianist must also capture the spirit of the music, bringing out the turbulence and lyricism that lie beneath the surface.
In an excellent performance of this etude, the pianist must maintain clarity throughout the rapid, cascading notes while simultaneously highlighting the
underlying musical lines and harmonic shifts. It requires not just speed, but a nuanced touch and careful attention to dynamics, allowing the audience to feel the contrasting moments of intensity and tenderness. The overall effect should be one of electrifying energy, leaving listeners both exhilarated and moved by the experience.
Anna Lipiak’s interpretation delivers all of this and more. As a rising star in the classical music world, she has garnered praise for her dynamic performances, bringing a fresh yet faithful approach to the works of the great masters. With her exceptional technique and deep understanding of Chopin’s music, she successfully captures the very essence of the Etude in C-sharp minor, creating a performance that leaves the audience breathless. This piece is a brilliant showcase of both the pianist’s virtuosity and her ability to connect with the emotional heart of the music.
Anna Lipiak is a talented Polish pianist known for her expressive performances and technical brilliance. She began her formal music education in Poland, later graduating with distinction from the Academy of Music in Gdańsk, where she studied under the guidance of Professor Waldemar Wojtal. Her training continued at prestigious institutions, including the Hochschule für Musik und Theater in Hamburg, where she developed her artistry further.
Anna has won numerous awards in international piano competitions, including the Bradshaw & Buono International Piano Competition in New York, and the Concours International de Piano Paris, solidifying her reputation as one of Poland’s leading young pianists. She has performed in esteemed venues across Europe and beyond, such as the Carnegie Hall in New York and the Palais de l’Athénée in Geneva.
In addition to her solo career, Anna is an accomplished chamber musician, frequently collaborating with other instrumentalists. Her repertoire is vast, ranging from classical masterpieces to contemporary works, and she is particularly recognised for her interpretations of Chopin and Beethoven.