Ballade in F minor, Op. 52 (Chopin)
Movements
Notes
A compositional masterpiece, completed in Paris, in 1842. It is the last piece in a set of four and considered the most technically challenging. Chopin effectively combines the use of sonata and variation form. The piece starts with a tranquil bell like opening, before the waltz begins with a lyrical melody. Further variations exhibit embellishment, counter-melodies, counterpoint, and a nocturne-like fioritura. At the turbulent coda, the music takes off at a fast tempo and tensions heighten. The music ends with four strong chords. As pianist John Ogdon states: ‘the most exalted, intense and sublimely powerful of all Chopin’s compositions… It is unbelievable that it lasts only twelve minutes, for it contains the experience of a lifetime.’
