Fine Arts

Chopin and the Polonaise
Sarah A. Blackwell
Dr. David McKamie, Faculty Mentor

In the piano music of Frederic Chopin, the polonaise holds an important position. Although music of the polonaise literature developed outside of Poland, it still has its roots in Polish songs and folk dances. A native of Poland, Chopin’s earlier style was influenced greatly by the polonaise. In his later polonaises, Chopin developed an element of complexity not normally found in the polonaises of other composers. Chopin’s polonaises feature trills, wide leaps, arpeggios, hand crossing and other virtuosic techniques. However, they still display basic rhythmic elements common to all polonaises. After a discussion of Chopin’s polonaises, the presenter will perform the Chopin Polonaise in C-sharp Minor, Op. 26 No. 1. The session will conclude with a brief question and answer period.

Keywords: 

Topic(s):Music

Presentation Type: Performance Art

Session: 16-1
Location: OP 1393, Performance Hall
Time: 10:00

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