Thanks for the shoutout! Great channel and great video! I had never noticed that progression up the whole-tone scale in Op. 37 No. 2 before! I think my favorite moment wasn't in your video though: a few bars after the crazy 48-tuplet you mentioned from Op. 27 No. 2, there's a bar marked "appasionato" that is probably my favorite moment from any Chopin nocturne.
@woobiez3977 Voor mij is opus 48,1 ook de top. Ook persoonlijk. Kreeg in 10 jaar tijd links en rechts een nieuwe heup. Met succes. Maar het ritme in het begin van deze Nocturne herinnert me aan de tijd vóór de operaties, toen strompelen een must was. En later, de roes om de goede afloop
30:13 I play this Nocturne, and I can confirm that this part is really amazing. First, a quiet melody (with some happy versions in between) and then after the sad finish, a loud set of triplets, surprising the listener and bringing even more attention to the music. Truthly beautiful! Love your work, Chopin!
a few years ago i recorded this piece, it in fact was one of the most beautiful things ive ever learned and still gives me goosebumps too! have a listen ua-cam.com/video/IIDOiw8wuTo/v-deo.html
I highly recommend listening to Valentina Lisitsa's rendition of 48/1, which is available here on UA-cam in great quality. To my opinion it is THE best and only interpretation that surpassed even titans like Rubinstein. UPD: Oh, looks like her account was hacked recently and all videos were lost. There is lower quality version somewhere but that wasn't the one I suggested.
@@Grigeral exactly, this ballade is the reason that made me play the piano after i haven t played it for 4 years, this ballade is my most listened piece in my playlist, everytime i wanna losten to music i start with the ballade and then go to other pieces😂😂 and yes it always send shivers down my spine and I m actually practicing it, i hope to play it entirely soon. Basically one of the best piece ever
@@kjrosmajuri1225 Agreed. Gives me chills every single time... Though I've since come across several others I want to learn. The only classical piece I've managed to learn of any real note though is Chopin's Waltz in A Minor. I'm also around 50% of the way through Moonlight Sonata 1st Mov.
Started playing when I was 4, I clearly remember that I HAD to play. Like an internal need. All music and all composers were amazing and needed. But then there was a period in my life - already an academy student - when I just burned out utterly and completely. I already played most of the composers, blessed with the ability and the career of being able to do so... and it was Beethoven and Bach that brought me back. Something in them, that is just globally missing from the others. Both held me in the music sphere when I felt like giving up. And then after them it was Chopin with his 48/1st and 2nd Nocturns. Bless him for that. And his Etudes of course, which probably every pianist secretly hates and loves at the same time. Thank you for the video!
I think that he plays way too fast and doesn't allow for the emotion of the piece to be properly expressed. My personal favourite is the interpretation by Janusz Olejniczak ua-cam.com/video/oMjfTQhoXbw/v-deo.html
I find Barenboim’s performance of that nocturne unique. Even though I know some people don’t like how he plays Chopin and it’s completely understandable due to people’s expectations on how Chopin should sound, I think he brings all the musicality the nocturne can offer. Particularly it is surprising that his contained and very controlled sound to avoid typical exaggeration on Chopin suits perfectly the character of the piece in my opinion
Chopin wasn't my reason to start learning piano, but he have become the reason to keep playing. P.s. I know everyone wrote this but Doppio Movimento from op. 48 no. 1 is in my heart
I think my favourite part from any Chopin noctirne is from op 72 no 1 when the main theme is brought back in octaves (bar 39-45) before the coda, it gives me goosebumps every time
Chopin's nocturnes ARE the very musical embodiment of piano music as a whole. It sounds like it was made for the piano, using it's intricacies to the fullest, the resonance, the melodies, the harmonies, the virtuoso-esk parts. They tell a story
This analysis of Chopin's music really shows how much of a genius he was. When you listen you can hear it of course but the intricacies and "mechanics" I guess you can say, bring out the incredible knowledge of music composition he had.
Watching this make me realise more how much of a genius Chopin was, he did just write a music, he creates a world for each piece. Now i love him ever more
I remember the several years that I absolutely adore Chopin. Op 55 still brings tears to my eyes. Thanks to you I finally understood no. 27. No 48 is like God speaking to us.
What ab absolute gem this channel is. I played (and quit) piano as a kid and Chopin was the reason I picked it back up as a young adult. Ever since then I have been obsessed with classical music as a whole, but Chopin is and will probably always be my favorite composer. Currently binge-watching every single video on this channel :)
These nocturnes convinced many to learn the piano. But Milstein arrangement of the Op. posth. in C-Sharp Minor also made many fall in love with the violin.
What in incredible course! This needs to be shared and taught in every conservatory and SOM out there. And not just with pianists, but all musicians. You have pointed out the details of what we already knew of the supreme genius of this man Chopin. Bravo.
27:10 This climax truly brings out the most intense emotional response my brain is able to conceivably produce. The texture is so utterly rich and thick and full of almost unbearably beautiful sound. Once I start listening I can't help but repeat it over and over again.
Holy Crap. What a fantastic job you have done here, Sir. This is what I have always found so fascinating about the works of classical composers. One can just listen and enjoy or, as in this case, take a complete deep dive into the music and break it down bar by bar. Either way, this stuff is a gift from God. Thank You.
@@marblemadness8870 isnt it classical music? I thought the romantic Era of composers who compose CLASSICAL MUSIC not some movie music composer or jass standard composer.
Well-deserved S tier for Op. 27 No. 2; that one is my absolute favorite to play! The notes are not very hard to learn but I could spend hours refining the tone and voicing. And in addition to the passages already mentioned, the coda is really beautiful as well!
I stumbled across this, and understand about 1 word in 10, never having learned music, but am absolutely enthralled. Thank you for opening a door and shining a light on something I never knew existed.
I expected this video to be a cheap collection of passages but it was well-researched and in-depth. Returning for the third time rn. Well-deserved like given
Time to grab a snack and cancel any plans in the next 45 minutes! Edit: Holy cow this was great! The choices of passages, the explanations, the depth, the exquisite narration, and of course the memes! This was an absolute pleasure to watch.
First of all, many thanks to your contribution to those pieces, they are all my favorites! At last Op. 48 No. 1 is the only one piece for me that is so remarkable and empathic! This piece remembers me to recall my common time with my dad, who had a sad and hard life when he was alive. It brings me to cry when I play it.
you speak very eloquently about Chopin's music, and your analysis brought new meaning to his Nocturnes. I now listen to them definitely from a new perspective, for some of them has been my favourite for decades.
Thank you for this beautiful masterclass on the music of Chopin. Growing up, I was fortunate to have my father playing these every evening when he would come home from work. He would sprinkle in Rachmaninoff, Schumann and Liszt, but my favorite was Chopin. Unfortunatly, I could not master playing the piano and ended up putting my energy into playing the flute. I think the years of listening to my father play Chopin helped form my own musical style that carried me through college and beyond.
Many musical commentaries, it seems, are devoid of the passion with which this wonderful presentation imparts! Thank you for helping me appreciate these Chopin mysterious and intimate melodies even more !
Thank you for including the concluding trilled version of the melody of the B major nocturne, op. 62, no. 1. Van Cliburn's playing of this passage awakened my eight year old soul to the possibilities of music way back in 1966, and music has been my constant comfort ever since. This was an absolutely brilliant idea for a video. We really don't deserve Chopin, but there he is, forever.
You're very welcome, Eric! How could I not? It's just such a transcendent moment, particularly in the hands of a master like Van Cliburn. Thanks for the comment - I'm so pleased you enjoyed it :)
Thank you for pointing out some of the richly expressive highlights within each of the nocturnes. It is remarkable that Chopin was considered by many during the 19th century to be a miner "salon" composer of salon music. Now, he is the most memorable, and his music is being played at any given time on earth. He is the composer of the heart and of the nuances of love. I love what you did here and forwarding it to many of my friends, music lovers, and people who are ready to to learn the depths of art music.
Close, it was his Ballades that got me. 20 years later they're still some of my favorites. The nocturnes are excellent in embodying either intense, ephemeral, forlorn, or tranquil feelings but the ballades are a musical adventure that takes you all over the place. They feel like musical escapism. I absolutely agree at 24:45, returning to the main theme after such an explosive lead in is so cathartic when playing it. The best players add voicing to the chords to better carry the melody. I prefer the Rubenstein or Arrau interpretation, but that's not really an insult.
You are a poet with your sublime voice and writing and powers of description and delivery. Thank you so very much. I savored every moment. I thought you were playing everything and was so surprised to find out at the end that you weren't.
Thank you so much for the kind words, Suzanne - I'm so very pleased you got something from the video! I'll have to check out the performances on your channel :)
Thank you Frederick! A great examination, analysis and naration of some of the most beautiful and musically marvelous (in the true sense of the word) passages of all Music! You've given me much to revisit in my piano playing. My favorite nocturne moments can be found in the D-flat major, the G major and yes the mostly ignored 48/2 and the wonderful 48/1... Thanks for posting the video and for welcoming our responses too!
The ending phrase of op62/2 is emotionally strong. After a series of emotions in the front and the ending-like arpeggio, you get a brief pause and then this simple phrase that pulls you out of the world. I can't help crying at the end no matter what I'm doing. Also, great video! It gives me many new insightful way of looking into these nocturnes.
Thanks Frederick Viner for Sharing us a great Information it's take a lot of time to merge all of this great Chopin Tune together into one Video Great Work Amazing Presentation with various analysis of Chopin Nocturne Bravo!!!
Thanks for this. Loved your analysis and the superbly nuanced and expressive playing...hearing OP.27 No.1 many years ago inspired my first attempt at his Nocturnes...Op48 No1 and Op72 are also particular favourites, but then again they all are...I never tire of hearing them...
thank you so much for your video, i wish i had half your knowledge in analysing music! Chopin's nocturne are more than piano pieces now, they're part of history. One of my favorite is op 32 n 2, its overlooked because of its simplicity, but its also the reason i love it so much, it feels like a walk in a beautiful garden, the melody is uplifting yet there's such melancholy in it, i find it hard to describe
@11:57, is the epitome of a glimmer of light at the end of the tunnel. This Nocturne is the most sublime of all piano music. Ohh Chopin, what have you done brother.
Your interpretation is just lovely! Beautiful articulation of every single musical instruction. I have loved Chopin since I was 14, and yet I still miss some of the subtleties you have brought to my attention! Thank you so much!
🤣 the thumbnail for this video had me in stitches. I'll never forget the time one of Chopin's nocturns had both me and my buddy, two grown ass men, crying on each other's shoulders. I'm glad we're not the only ones.
I had literally all these in mind, this is an amazing video, criminally underrated channel. The nocturnes are so special to me, I'm aiming to learn all of them, I've done 9 so far :)
I've listened to and loved Chopin for years...with that being said, I couldn't decide on a favorite nocturne because all of them wedged feelings within me. A couple years ago, however, I finally realized that the greatest works he ever accomplished were the 17th and 18th nocturnes. Those...are just on another level.
MrTrackman, I share your appreciation of this remarkable video. So much information is beyond my understanding but I’m pleased to enjoy and learn a bit more at my age (84).
Op 15 no 2’s middle section is truly magical. It doesn’t sound real. Im currently learning this nocturne and I’m truly intrigued on how Chopin composed this, he is a piano legend.
This video is inspirational and beautiful. I have played many Chopin’s pieces but on classical guitar including the nocturne 9 no 2 too. I always research about the piece and listen to it with all my ability to think with the composer perspective, you have given me more details which I love. Thank you so much.
what a really interesting video this is!! Its nice to see someone doing their take on the most beautiful passages in not only a few, but EVERY chopin nocturne. Currently learning the op32 no2 and i thoroughly agree with all you have said. Enjoying your videos 😊
I love this I love your interpretations and I have learned from this. (I’m a symphonic composer and a pianistic composer as my first love) In 9/1 you say the 5th evoke distant horns- beautiful idea. I hear these perfect 5ths as intrinsic results of his brilliant “glass” lyricism where voices über Alles will not obscure a melody. 9/2 was also my “here is your new love” song. I see what you mean with the Abm/Eb section precoda. I never noticed this because I never actually analyzed this piece and in performance was too busy with goosebumps at such a simple yet dramatic flutter. 55/1 is a tour de force of ascended permutation. The “anguished contrapuntal passage” when I read it I thought oh darn he’s lost the plot- but playing this abomination of “crushed spider”-rhythm against such dissonance of course GENIUS. The only lesson I teach EVERY composition student is the power of the perceived imperfection. So too with Mozart, I would study his music and genius genius genius all perfect notes where no other note COULD ever be better by any opinion and genius genius ge- WHAT⁉️ a “wrong” note?!? (Music theory wise) and soon realized it was these anomalies which seemed out of place which give it its transcendence. Love your channel! (The playing seems high dynamics, maybe a recording artifact, but I always played him with lighter touch until he brings out that turmoil in contrast)
I love this type of video! I love just nerding about each piece and learning all about them. You should do another such as this one and combine the ballades, scherzos along with the barcarolle
The genius variation of main theme in the last part of op55 n.1 is just something which actually doesn’t seem of this world . You should’ve included that too
Phenomenal video I have to say! I adore your way of breaking down the muscial qualities of the passages. My personal favourite has to be the ending of op. 27 no 2. After their incredible duet together, Chopin has the singers gracefully exit off stage in the ascending 7:6 polyrhythm, pure bliss!
Thanks, Charles, and thanks also for the help!!! What do you make of the VO audio? I had to work pretty hard to hide background noise and there didn't seem to be a solution other than getting my hands dirty and dragging sliders all over the place... That ending is just heavenly though, isn't it? Tbh I could have easily just gone with the ending for all of them, or the beginning, or the middle etc...
Op. 27 no. 1 deserves more love, IMO. It was the specific piece that pushed me into pursuing piano, and the first piece I ever learned all the way through.
@@josephansary8114 I agree, it's a total masterpiece but I suppose it's overshadowed by it's major-key sibling. Hang on...the FIRST piece you ever learned all the way through!?
I agree, the melody has something special, not to mention the middle section... im still struggling a bit with that part tho, probably because it s the hardest in the piece.
I can't remember how many times I've listened to the Chopin Nocturnes, no doubt it's the piece I've heard most in my whole life. And I don't think anything else could have kept so intact my desire to keep listening to it, and to always find something new in it. Is this also the case for some of you?
What a wonderful and informative video! Some things I would consider: The eruption before the choral in the first g minor nocturne with the mazurka like jumps and almost Stygian chords. The end of the stormy section in the 15 no 1 with its dreamy and longing suspension. The firey section after the first theme in the op 27 no 1. The beautiful waltz in the op 32 no 2 (the middle.) The passage immediately following the ominous trill in the op 48 no 2 that you showed, the descending melody in the left hand with transforms into octaves is so aching and gorgeous. In the op 55 no 1, I would have included the winding and ethereal expansion of the melody after the very last play of the main theme, where it becomes chromatic and runs up and down the piano and to end on the diminished chord before ending in f major. And also, I don’t know if you left it out on purpose but there is another nocturne! The posthumous 21st in c minor. It is a very beautiful and polish sounding piece, and although short, yields some great ideas. Thanks for the video though!!!!
Love the choice for Op. 27 No. 1. There is just some music that I find absolutely 100% beautiful that I can enjoy with zero cynicism and this is one of those places. Yet I have no idea what makes some musical phrases gel with me more than others. Great video!
Thank you! Thank you for your highly educated, passionate analysis of the genius nuances in Chopin’s Nocturnes. I was disappointed as your video came to an end! Albeit ended with one if my favorite Nocturnes 🥰 I’m so glad to have happened upon this video, what an amazing wY to start my day, I’m walking on clouds and my heart is full. Does anyone else understand this feeling? I don’t know but again I thank you and have subscribed. Will play this video many, many times and listen in my quiet time. God bless you richly 🥰💐
Fantastic video. Personally, I think op 55 no 2, op 32 no 2, op 37 no 2 and op 48 no 2 are all underrated. If only Chopin had lived longer and composed nocturnes even more complex than the op 62 set...
My first nocturne was op 32 no 2, 48 no 2 is legendary but I think 48 no 1 is rightly better well known. I want to learn op 9 no 2, op 15 no 1 op 27 no 2 , op 48 no 1 and of course the last one op 62 no 2. I think they are the best and right belong to his most famous works but every nocturne is a travel to what love means
Difficult to argue with you…… so I won’t! I came to your channel after nearly poking out my eyes and ears with pencils in horror at the drivel served up on the BBC proms tonight. „Smooth relaxing rap“. Compound oxymoron of the year. Thanks for the effort you’ve put in. Highly enjoyable.
Can you continuously upload an analysis explaining how each pieces where written? This is great for those who are just getting into classical music but having a hard time not knowing where to start!
Szopen was out of this world! I started playing after hearing prelude e-moll, I never played anything but drums and my thinking was. Ok this sounds easy to play in terms of technique and I can handle the emotions. Next was nocturn es-dur, those two and many more touched my heart deeply. I love play ony fpr myself its like therapy to me.
It's so hard to choose the best passage out of all nocturnes but definitely one of my favs is op 15 no 1, the 2nd part, when the dark theme builds up to end up in major. I especially like François Chaplin's interpretation as he perfectly slows down there to point out that transition.
Op. 15 no. 1 damn that’s a great catch. That shred of doubt really does highlight the seam between pure human emotion and music theory creativity Chopin seemed to capture incredibly.
I and probably also many other people would love to see a similair video about Chopin's Mazurkas, Preludes, Etudes or Maybe his Waltzes. Keep up the good work.
I've been watching your videos for a while now, every time you upload I expect to see at least 100k subscribers! Wonderful, looking forward to next time!
The most magical moment in nocturnes for me is in Op. 62, No. 1, bars 17-21. The melody stays more-or-less unchanged, but the underlying harmony subtly changes from G-sharp minor to D-sharp minor. Chopin keeps the bass "alive" by allowing it to resolve from D-sharp to the tonic G-sharp (bars 17 and 19), until, at last, the bass is left to "die" on D-sharp (bar 21)
I never realized the opener of 15/3 was a mazurka. I love the chorale passage as well. To me it suggests an empty church: bare whitewashed stone walls and wooden pews (I would play it a little slower and simpler than this recording). 27/1 is my favorite of all the Nocturnes. So powerful and dramatic, with that beautiful closing passage you highlighted. Right behind 27/1 in my personal list of favorites are 15/3, 9/1 and 37/2.
Did you know that Chopin originally called it 'At the Cemetery'? Glad you like 37/2 - that one doesn't get nearly enough love (maybe because it's so difficult...?)
@@FrederickViner I did not! Chopin rarely titled his pieces, so it would have been interesting if he'd left the title, as that's an evocative description of the piece. 37/2 tied my fingers into knots, but it was worth the effort.
Thanks for the shoutout! Great channel and great video! I had never noticed that progression up the whole-tone scale in Op. 37 No. 2 before! I think my favorite moment wasn't in your video though: a few bars after the crazy 48-tuplet you mentioned from Op. 27 No. 2, there's a bar marked "appasionato" that is probably my favorite moment from any Chopin nocturne.
a
Yeah, that part is so beautiful. It always gives me goosebumps
Q
Same
Both make Great videos. 👏
op. 48 no. 1 is my all time favorite piece in the entire world ever
op.55 no.2 remains my favorite piece to this day
@woobiez3977 Voor mij is opus 48,1 ook de top. Ook persoonlijk. Kreeg in 10 jaar tijd links en rechts een nieuwe heup. Met succes. Maar het ritme in het begin van deze Nocturne herinnert me aan de tijd vóór de operaties, toen strompelen een must was. En later, de roes om de goede afloop
BEST
@@arlettehellemans2117ooga booga
Superly me too 😭❤❤❤
Op. 48 no. 1 is truly just built different
Almost feels like it's straight up a Ballade, Chopin was on another level when he wrote that one.
Cocaine is a hell of a drug.
@@marblemadness8870 lets be real he probably mixed in a a bit of absinthe with it as well
The doppio movimento section is too beautiful, it gives me goosebomps and send shivers to my spine
Don't say "built different" to describe a chopin piece, how dare you
@@crackcaster but it is just built different
what I'm picking up here is that the entirety of Op.48 No.1 is the most beautiful passage and I'd have to agree
I learned Op. 72. No. 1 when I was 12. It still astonishes me that a 17 year old was able to write something with that amount of sorrow and beauty.
i learned this when i was 11 and in level 3, and it is so beautiful. it amazed everyone.
Its not really that hard to compose it
@@gmfrunzik And yet it took one of the greatest musicians ever to write it. Odd.
it is my favorite though chopin did not think so
30:13 I play this Nocturne, and I can confirm that this part is really amazing. First, a quiet melody (with some happy versions in between) and then after the sad finish, a loud set of triplets, surprising the listener and bringing even more attention to the music. Truthly beautiful! Love your work, Chopin!
The doppio section of 48/1 always gives me goosebumps. I’m glad you played the whole part in the video. 👍🏻
Me too. I just couldn't cut that one down and Chaimovich's playing is gut-wrenching (in a good way).
a few years ago i recorded this piece, it in fact was one of the most beautiful things ive ever learned and still gives me goosebumps too!
have a listen ua-cam.com/video/IIDOiw8wuTo/v-deo.html
@@FrederickViner it is most definitely gut-wrenching; so happy you played the entire section
I highly recommend listening to Valentina Lisitsa's rendition of 48/1, which is available here on UA-cam in great quality. To my opinion it is THE best and only interpretation that surpassed even titans like Rubinstein.
UPD: Oh, looks like her account was hacked recently and all videos were lost. There is lower quality version somewhere but that wasn't the one I suggested.
@@dmitriykashitsyn3383 Objectively no one beats Rubinstein in nocturnes even Valentina.
In all honesty, Chopin's Ballade No. 1 is why I started learning the piano.
I may never get there, but I'm gonna damn well give it my best until I do!
YES! It's my ultimate goal in life! LOVE THIS BALLADE❤
@@thisisthemansworld8704 Indeed, it's one of the pieces that never fails to send shivers down my spine.
@@Grigeral exactly, this ballade is the reason that made me play the piano after i haven t played it for 4 years, this ballade is my most listened piece in my playlist, everytime i wanna losten to music i start with the ballade and then go to other pieces😂😂 and yes it always send shivers down my spine and I m actually practicing it, i hope to play it entirely soon.
Basically one of the best piece ever
@@kjrosmajuri1225 Agreed. Gives me chills every single time... Though I've since come across several others I want to learn.
The only classical piece I've managed to learn of any real note though is Chopin's Waltz in A Minor. I'm also around 50% of the way through Moonlight Sonata 1st Mov.
@@Grigeral gg that s good, so keep practicing, moonlight sonata is a masterpiece too but also long and hard to learn.
Take ur time and u ll get it
Started playing when I was 4, I clearly remember that I HAD to play. Like an internal need. All music and all composers were amazing and needed.
But then there was a period in my life - already an academy student - when I just burned out utterly and completely. I already played most of the composers, blessed with the ability and the career of being able to do so... and it was Beethoven and Bach that brought me back. Something in them, that is just globally missing from the others. Both held me in the music sphere when I felt like giving up.
And then after them it was Chopin with his 48/1st and 2nd Nocturns. Bless him for that.
And his Etudes of course, which probably every pianist secretly hates and loves at the same time.
Thank you for the video!
It makes me want to grab a beer and discuss about Chopin’s brillant skill in counterpoint and harmony all night long.
It sure would be fun to have a Chopin discussion club!
@@kaypie3112 I would love to join the club :D
Chopin Discord Fanclub?
wait, counterpoint? I love counterpoint, but I’ve never noticed it in Chopin nocturnes. Where can I find it?
Why a grabbing a beer and not another drink?
23:45 I recommend to everyone Rubinstein's recording of this Nocturne, it is one of the most wonderful pieces of music I have ever heard.
My fav interpretation is from Hayato Sumino from 1st round of Chopin Competition. Incredible last part.
Krystian Zimmer also plays Chopin very well
I think that he plays way too fast and doesn't allow for the emotion of the piece to be properly expressed. My personal favourite is the interpretation by Janusz Olejniczak
ua-cam.com/video/oMjfTQhoXbw/v-deo.html
Rubinstein & Zimmerman best combo
I find Barenboim’s performance of that nocturne unique. Even though I know some people don’t like how he plays Chopin and it’s completely understandable due to people’s expectations on how Chopin should sound, I think he brings all the musicality the nocturne can offer. Particularly it is surprising that his contained and very controlled sound to avoid typical exaggeration on Chopin suits perfectly the character of the piece in my opinion
op48 no1 is my all time favorite; its a rollercoaster
Chopin wasn't my reason to start learning piano, but he have become the reason to keep playing.
P.s. I know everyone wrote this but Doppio Movimento from op. 48 no. 1 is in my heart
Just came to see what you did for 27 no 2 as that's what I'm currently playing. Not disappointed.
I think my favourite part from any Chopin noctirne is from op 72 no 1 when the main theme is brought back in octaves (bar 39-45) before the coda, it gives me goosebumps every time
Chopin's nocturnes ARE the very musical embodiment of piano music as a whole. It sounds like it was made for the piano, using it's intricacies to the fullest, the resonance, the melodies, the harmonies, the virtuoso-esk parts. They tell a story
This analysis of Chopin's music really shows how much of a genius he was. When you listen you can hear it of course but the intricacies and "mechanics" I guess you can say, bring out the incredible knowledge of music composition he had.
Rubinstein's interpretation of op48 no1 is actually so amazing
Watching this make me realise more how much of a genius Chopin was, he did just write a music, he creates a world for each piece. Now i love him ever more
I remember the several years that I absolutely adore Chopin. Op 55 still brings tears to my eyes. Thanks to you I finally understood no. 27. No 48 is like God speaking to us.
These are my three favorite ones aswell!
I have to adjust your first statement in order to raise BOTH hands (and feet), “Chopin is the reason I learned to play piano.”
True! It's the etudes which did it for me
Ballades for me
Facts! The ballades did it for me as well especially no 1 and no 4
For me it’s Liszt
true, theres something about chopin thats just so rich, harmonious, luscious, fragrant.. the style is really one of my favourites
What ab absolute gem this channel is.
I played (and quit) piano as a kid and Chopin was the reason I picked it back up as a young adult.
Ever since then I have been obsessed with classical music as a whole, but Chopin is and will probably always be my favorite composer.
Currently binge-watching every single video on this channel :)
Thanks so much for the kind words! Very glad to hear you returned to piano :)
Every single moment of op. 62/1 along with 62/2 is magic. They are by far my favourite in the set, just incredibly progressive and mature...
The most honest version of this video would just be the full recordings of all 20...
Scott Joplin's rags are the reason I started learning the piano! Love Chopin, too !
These nocturnes convinced many to learn the piano. But Milstein arrangement of the Op. posth. in C-Sharp Minor also made many fall in love with the violin.
What in incredible course! This needs to be shared and taught in every conservatory and SOM out there. And not just with pianists, but all musicians. You have pointed out the details of what we already knew of the supreme genius of this man Chopin. Bravo.
Thank you for the kind words, Michael! It really means a lot :)
27:10 This climax truly brings out the most intense emotional response my brain is able to conceivably produce. The texture is so utterly rich and thick and full of almost unbearably beautiful sound. Once I start listening I can't help but repeat it over and over again.
43:40 I first heard this when I was twelve. I instantly fell in love. And now, five years later, I'm finally learning how to play it.
HOW did I not know about this channel until now? What a gem!
Thanks, David :) What's your favourite passage(s)?
Holy Crap.
What a fantastic job you have done here, Sir.
This is what I have always found so fascinating about the works of classical composers.
One can just listen and enjoy or, as in this case, take a complete deep dive into the music and break it down bar by bar.
Either way, this stuff is a gift from God.
Thank You.
Thank YOU for the lovely comment - makes the whole thing worthwhile :)
Chopin wasn't a classical composer. His music is from the Romantic Era.
@@marblemadness8870 isnt it classical music? I thought the romantic Era of composers who compose CLASSICAL MUSIC not some movie music composer or jass standard composer.
“Opus. 9 no. 2 is where my piano journey began”
Me: bro, your not alone :)
Well-deserved S tier for Op. 27 No. 2; that one is my absolute favorite to play! The notes are not very hard to learn but I could spend hours refining the tone and voicing. And in addition to the passages already mentioned, the coda is really beautiful as well!
I adore playing it as well :) But I very nearly did go for the coda! The 7vs6 ending is also a lovely, brain-fuzzing detail.
For me it was a pest to memorize tho lol, those left hand patterns change all the time
The quintuplets before the end of Op. 55. No. 2. are sublime
the reprise in 0p48 no.1 is why it's my fav nocturne ever, it's just perfect
I understand not much, but the music is beautiful and touching, could listen to it forever
I stumbled across this, and understand about 1 word in 10, never having learned music, but am absolutely enthralled. Thank you for opening a door and shining a light on something I never knew existed.
Your comment makes me very happy - thank you :)
I expected this video to be a cheap collection of passages but it was well-researched and in-depth. Returning for the third time rn. Well-deserved like given
I'm so pleased it exceeded your expectations! :)
@@FrederickViner thank you for making this
Time to grab a snack and cancel any plans in the next 45 minutes!
Edit: Holy cow this was great! The choices of passages, the explanations, the depth, the exquisite narration, and of course the memes!
This was an absolute pleasure to watch.
Thanks so much! That makes the whole thing worth it :)
What's your favourite passage(s)?
@@FrederickViner hard to go wrong with what you have chosen, but I will mention the codas of 48/2 and 55/2
Those were both my first choices! Quintuplets at the end of 55/2 also link back to the end of 32/2
@@FrederickViner ahh...those quintuplets are simply delicious!
Hey, didn't expect to see you here. How are you doing? It's been a long time
First of all, many thanks to your contribution to those pieces, they are all my favorites! At last Op. 48 No. 1 is the only one piece for me that is so remarkable and empathic! This piece remembers me to recall my common time with my dad, who had a sad and hard life when he was alive. It brings me to cry when I play it.
you speak very eloquently about Chopin's music, and your analysis brought new meaning to his Nocturnes. I now listen to them definitely from a new perspective, for some of them has been my favourite for decades.
Thank you for this beautiful masterclass on the music of Chopin. Growing up, I was fortunate to have my father playing these every evening when he would come home from work. He would sprinkle in Rachmaninoff, Schumann and Liszt, but my favorite was Chopin. Unfortunatly, I could not master playing the piano and ended up putting my energy into playing the flute. I think the years of listening to my father play Chopin helped form my own musical style that carried me through college and beyond.
You're very welcome, Margaret! So lovely that your father played this repertoire. I was lucky to be exposed to it from my mother's playing :)
Zimerman's Ballade No. 1 (the first climax) and Nocturne Op. 15 No. 2 (middle section) was one of the first times I get obsessed over a passage.
Many musical commentaries, it seems, are devoid of the passion with which this wonderful presentation imparts! Thank you for helping me appreciate these Chopin mysterious and intimate melodies even more !
Thank you for including the concluding trilled version of the melody of the B major nocturne, op. 62, no. 1. Van Cliburn's playing of this passage awakened my eight year old soul to the possibilities of music way back in 1966, and music has been my constant comfort ever since.
This was an absolutely brilliant idea for a video. We really don't deserve Chopin, but there he is, forever.
You're very welcome, Eric! How could I not? It's just such a transcendent moment, particularly in the hands of a master like Van Cliburn.
Thanks for the comment - I'm so pleased you enjoyed it :)
Thank you for pointing out some of the richly expressive highlights within each of the nocturnes. It is remarkable that Chopin was considered by many during the 19th century to be a miner "salon" composer of salon music. Now, he is the most memorable, and his music is being played at any given time on earth. He is the composer of the heart and of the nuances of love. I love what you did here and forwarding it to many of my friends, music lovers, and people who are ready to to learn the depths of art music.
Close, it was his Ballades that got me. 20 years later they're still some of my favorites. The nocturnes are excellent in embodying either intense, ephemeral, forlorn, or tranquil feelings but the ballades are a musical adventure that takes you all over the place. They feel like musical escapism.
I absolutely agree at 24:45, returning to the main theme after such an explosive lead in is so cathartic when playing it. The best players add voicing to the chords to better carry the melody. I prefer the Rubenstein or Arrau interpretation, but that's not really an insult.
His ballades make me want a piano. I am planning to buy an electric piano soon
Did you achieve playing them after 20years?
You are a poet with your sublime voice and writing and powers of description and delivery. Thank you so very much. I savored every moment. I thought you were playing everything and was so surprised to find out at the end that you weren't.
Thank you so much for the kind words, Suzanne - I'm so very pleased you got something from the video! I'll have to check out the performances on your channel :)
@@FrederickViner You're most welcome. Some of my performances are much better than others on my channel. I'm sure you understand.
Thank you Frederick! A great examination, analysis and naration of some of the most beautiful and musically marvelous (in the true sense of the word) passages of all Music! You've given me much to revisit in my piano playing. My favorite nocturne moments can be found in the D-flat major, the G major and yes the mostly ignored 48/2 and the wonderful 48/1... Thanks for posting the video and for welcoming our responses too!
The ending phrase of op62/2 is emotionally strong. After a series of emotions in the front and the ending-like arpeggio, you get a brief pause and then this simple phrase that pulls you out of the world. I can't help crying at the end no matter what I'm doing.
Also, great video! It gives me many new insightful way of looking into these nocturnes.
Thanks Frederick Viner for Sharing us a great Information it's take a lot of time to merge all of this great Chopin Tune together into one Video Great Work Amazing Presentation with various analysis of Chopin Nocturne Bravo!!!
Thanks for this. Loved your analysis and the superbly nuanced and expressive playing...hearing OP.27 No.1 many years ago inspired my first attempt at his Nocturnes...Op48 No1 and Op72 are also particular favourites, but then again they all are...I never tire of hearing them...
Many thanks for the comment, John! So pleased you enjoyed it :)
Im learning Op 48 No 1 for all of the listed reasons. Great video
thank you so much for your video, i wish i had half your knowledge in analysing music!
Chopin's nocturne are more than piano pieces now, they're part of history. One of my favorite is op 32 n 2, its overlooked because of its simplicity, but its also the reason i love it so much, it feels like a walk in a beautiful garden, the melody is uplifting yet there's such melancholy in it, i find it hard to describe
@11:57, is the epitome of a glimmer of light at the end of the tunnel. This Nocturne is the most sublime of all piano music. Ohh Chopin, what have you done brother.
Chopin's music is so fabulous... thanks for this video!!!!!!
Your interpretation is just lovely! Beautiful articulation of every single musical instruction. I have loved Chopin since I was 14, and yet I still miss some of the subtleties you have brought to my attention! Thank you so much!
🤣 the thumbnail for this video had me in stitches. I'll never forget the time one of Chopin's nocturns had both me and my buddy, two grown ass men, crying on each other's shoulders. I'm glad we're not the only ones.
I had literally all these in mind, this is an amazing video, criminally underrated channel. The nocturnes are so special to me, I'm aiming to learn all of them, I've done 9 so far :)
Seriously!? Wow, great minds aye? ;) That's a brilliant idea - would it be possible to hear your performances somewhere? :) And thanks very much!
@@FrederickViner as soon as I'm done recording I'll upload them here! Keep the great content coming
@@chrisy367 can't wait to hear them :)
how‘s it going?
@@luismarle8282 12 down, though lately I've been holding off on them to do some other stuff!
I've listened to and loved Chopin for years...with that being said, I couldn't decide on a favorite nocturne because all of them wedged feelings within me. A couple years ago, however, I finally realized that the greatest works he ever accomplished were the 17th and 18th nocturnes. Those...are just on another level.
Being a novice, I know your tutorial is so much beyond me but I managed to understand some of it. Thank you.
Fr props to the ppl that understand all the roman numerals i only learn the basics and got unmotivated
Edit: is unmodivated even a word lol
MrTrackman, I share your appreciation of this remarkable video. So much information is beyond my understanding but I’m pleased to enjoy and learn a bit more at my age (84).
Op 15 no 2’s middle section is truly magical. It doesn’t sound real. Im currently learning this nocturne and I’m truly intrigued on how Chopin composed this, he is a piano legend.
completely agree, it sounds … out of this world
This video is inspirational and beautiful. I have played many Chopin’s pieces but on classical guitar including the nocturne 9 no 2 too. I always research about the piece and listen to it with all my ability to think with the composer perspective, you have given me more details which I love. Thank you so much.
Thank you for the kind words, Vilakshan - I'm so pleased you enjoyed the video :) I'll have to check out your wonderful channel!
what a really interesting video this is!! Its nice to see someone doing their take on the most beautiful passages in not only a few, but EVERY chopin nocturne. Currently learning the op32 no2 and i thoroughly agree with all you have said. Enjoying your videos 😊
Not every. He ignored the posthomous c minor nocturne.
Today I finished learning the nocturne op 72 n 1, it took me 3 weeks of practice. Es una maravilla
Thank you for a lovely afternoon, with Chopin ❤
I love this I love your interpretations and I have learned from this. (I’m a symphonic composer and a pianistic composer as my first love)
In 9/1 you say the 5th evoke distant horns- beautiful idea. I hear these perfect 5ths as intrinsic results of his brilliant “glass” lyricism where voices über Alles will not obscure a melody.
9/2 was also my “here is your new love” song.
I see what you mean with the Abm/Eb section precoda. I never noticed this because I never actually analyzed this piece and in performance was too busy with goosebumps at such a simple yet dramatic flutter.
55/1 is a tour de force of ascended permutation. The “anguished contrapuntal passage” when I read it I thought oh darn he’s lost the plot- but playing this abomination of “crushed spider”-rhythm against such dissonance of course GENIUS.
The only lesson I teach EVERY composition student is the power of the perceived imperfection.
So too with Mozart, I would study his music and genius genius genius all perfect notes where no other note COULD ever be better by any opinion and genius genius ge- WHAT⁉️ a “wrong” note?!? (Music theory wise) and soon realized it was these anomalies which seemed out of place which give it its transcendence.
Love your channel!
(The playing seems high dynamics, maybe a recording artifact, but I always played him with lighter touch until he brings out that turmoil in contrast)
Thi video could’ve been about Op. 48 No. 1 alone and would’ve been enough material. Thank you for an amazing and goosebumpsly job.
Wonderful exploration of the nocturnes. I thoroughly enjoyed every single second of it.
This is an amazingly brilliant analysis of these timeless masterpieces! Please upload more on the ballades!
Thank you, James! Video on Ballade 4 is coming up in the next couple months...
@@FrederickViner wow, can't wait for that! fav piece of all time
I love this type of video! I love just nerding about each piece and learning all about them. You should do another such as this one and combine the ballades, scherzos along with the barcarolle
The genius variation of main theme in the last part of op55 n.1 is just something which actually doesn’t seem of this world . You should’ve included that too
Phenomenal video I have to say! I adore your way of breaking down the muscial qualities of the passages. My personal favourite has to be the ending of op. 27 no 2. After their incredible duet together, Chopin has the singers gracefully exit off stage in the ascending 7:6 polyrhythm, pure bliss!
Thank you so much! You're so right - the end of 27/2 is magical
@@FrederickViner I commend you especially for finding so many incredible recordings as well! There are some really phenomenal interpretations here
One of mine, too. Once got three friends to listen to it, with me, over and over while we sat on the floor in the dark. Good memory.
Brilliant and lovely choices! Op 27 No 1 was the first Nocturne I played, and I completely agree with the passage you selected!
Thanks, Charles, and thanks also for the help!!! What do you make of the VO audio? I had to work pretty hard to hide background noise and there didn't seem to be a solution other than getting my hands dirty and dragging sliders all over the place...
That ending is just heavenly though, isn't it? Tbh I could have easily just gone with the ending for all of them, or the beginning, or the middle etc...
Op. 27 no. 1 deserves more love, IMO. It was the specific piece that pushed me into pursuing piano, and the first piece I ever learned all the way through.
@@josephansary8114 I agree, it's a total masterpiece but I suppose it's overshadowed by it's major-key sibling. Hang on...the FIRST piece you ever learned all the way through!?
I agree, the melody has something special, not to mention the middle section... im still struggling a bit with that part tho, probably because it s the hardest in the piece.
i love the color change anna fedorova does there in her recording of it, highly recommend listening to that moment in her recording
I can't remember how many times I've listened to the Chopin Nocturnes, no doubt it's the piece I've heard most in my whole life. And I don't think anything else could have kept so intact my desire to keep listening to it, and to always find something new in it. Is this also the case for some of you?
OP 27 no 2 gotta be my favorite nocturne of all time so beautiful crafted
What a wonderful and informative video! Some things I would consider: The eruption before the choral in the first g minor nocturne with the mazurka like jumps and almost Stygian chords. The end of the stormy section in the 15 no 1 with its dreamy and longing suspension. The firey section after the first theme in the op 27 no 1. The beautiful waltz in the op 32 no 2 (the middle.) The passage immediately following the ominous trill in the op 48 no 2 that you showed, the descending melody in the left hand with transforms into octaves is so aching and gorgeous. In the op 55 no 1, I would have included the winding and ethereal expansion of the melody after the very last play of the main theme, where it becomes chromatic and runs up and down the piano and to end on the diminished chord before ending in f major. And also, I don’t know if you left it out on purpose but there is another nocturne! The posthumous 21st in c minor. It is a very beautiful and polish sounding piece, and although short, yields some great ideas. Thanks for the video though!!!!
Love the choice for Op. 27 No. 1. There is just some music that I find absolutely 100% beautiful that I can enjoy with zero cynicism and this is one of those places. Yet I have no idea what makes some musical phrases gel with me more than others. Great video!
Thank you! Thank you for your highly educated, passionate analysis of the genius nuances in Chopin’s Nocturnes. I was disappointed as your video came to an end! Albeit ended with one if my favorite Nocturnes 🥰
I’m so glad to have happened upon this video, what an amazing wY to start my day, I’m walking on clouds and my heart is full. Does anyone else understand this feeling? I don’t know but again I thank you and have subscribed. Will play this video many, many times and listen in my quiet time. God bless you richly 🥰💐
I think maybe this is the best video about music on UA-cam so far
gorgeous content, I've enjoyed all pieces!! My favourite is by far op.48 no.1
Fantastic video. Personally, I think op 55 no 2, op 32 no 2, op 37 no 2 and op 48 no 2 are all underrated.
If only Chopin had lived longer and composed nocturnes even more complex than the op 62 set...
My first nocturne was op 32 no 2, 48 no 2 is legendary but I think 48 no 1 is rightly better well known. I want to learn op 9 no 2, op 15 no 1 op 27 no 2 , op 48 no 1 and of course the last one op 62 no 2. I think they are the best and right belong to his most famous works but every nocturne is a travel to what love means
@@alanleoneldavid1787 i learned the op.62. A really rewarding and crowd-pleasing opus for sure!
Difficult to argue with you…… so I won’t! I came to your channel after nearly poking out my eyes and ears with pencils in horror at the drivel served up on the BBC proms tonight. „Smooth relaxing rap“. Compound oxymoron of the year. Thanks for the effort you’ve put in. Highly enjoyable.
havent seen a more relatable thumbnail, ur a genius
Op 48/1 was always my fave to listen and to play
Can you continuously upload an analysis explaining how each pieces where written? This is great for those who are just getting into classical music but having a hard time not knowing where to start!
Szopen was out of this world! I started playing after hearing prelude e-moll, I never played anything but drums and my thinking was. Ok this sounds easy to play in terms of technique and I can handle the emotions. Next was nocturn es-dur, those two and many more touched my heart deeply. I love play ony fpr myself its like therapy to me.
It's so hard to choose the best passage out of all nocturnes but definitely one of my favs is op 15 no 1, the 2nd part, when the dark theme builds up to end up in major. I especially like François Chaplin's interpretation as he perfectly slows down there to point out that transition.
wonderfully analytical, yet deeply musical. Capturing the uniquely creative soul of Chopin. Thank you so much
Thank you for the kind words! I'm so pleased you enjoyed it
Thank you, Frederick!! What a nice analysis and thoughtful approach to enjoying Chopin Nocturnes! A gift to all of us.
You're very welcome! Thank you so much for the kind words :)
Op. 15 no. 1 damn that’s a great catch. That shred of doubt really does highlight the seam between pure human emotion and music theory creativity Chopin seemed to capture incredibly.
Outstanding compendium. I have to learn these pieces, they are absolutely exquisite. I specialize in Scarlatti but need to get back to Chopin again.
I and probably also many other people would love to see a similair video about Chopin's Mazurkas, Preludes, Etudes or Maybe his Waltzes. Keep up the good work.
I love how the same nocturne can sound so differently depending on the pianist
op. 72 no. 1 and 27 no. 2 are my favourites and I agree with your selection! And I definitely raised my hand at the beginning of the video :D
You are amazing I have played a couple of different nocturnes by Chopin and you manage to pick out my favorite part in all of them
I've been watching your videos for a while now, every time you upload I expect to see at least 100k subscribers! Wonderful, looking forward to next time!
It's rather obvious that Chopin's sense of musical taste is impeccable.
The most magical moment in nocturnes for me is in Op. 62, No. 1, bars 17-21. The melody stays more-or-less unchanged, but the underlying harmony subtly changes from G-sharp minor to D-sharp minor. Chopin keeps the bass "alive" by allowing it to resolve from D-sharp to the tonic G-sharp (bars 17 and 19), until, at last, the bass is left to "die" on D-sharp (bar 21)
I never realized the opener of 15/3 was a mazurka. I love the chorale passage as well. To me it suggests an empty church: bare whitewashed stone walls and wooden pews (I would play it a little slower and simpler than this recording).
27/1 is my favorite of all the Nocturnes. So powerful and dramatic, with that beautiful closing passage you highlighted. Right behind 27/1 in my personal list of favorites are 15/3, 9/1 and 37/2.
Did you know that Chopin originally called it 'At the Cemetery'?
Glad you like 37/2 - that one doesn't get nearly enough love (maybe because it's so difficult...?)
@@FrederickViner I did not! Chopin rarely titled his pieces, so it would have been interesting if he'd left the title, as that's an evocative description of the piece.
37/2 tied my fingers into knots, but it was worth the effort.