Ignacy Jan Paderewski ： 6 Concert Humoresques Sarabande Op.14-2

This miniature from Paderewski’s “6 Concert Humoresques” is imbued with the character of a sarabande. Within its measured pace, its poised rhythm and gentle lyricism create an impression of quiet dignity rather than display. Although concise, the work becomes easier to understand as a whole when the flow from the opening, through its changes of expression, to the conclusion is kept in mind. In performance, it is important to preserve the weight of the beat while allowing the melody to sing carefully. Chords should be balanced so that their resonance remains clear, and the gradual changes in dynamics should unfold without haste, with restrained flexibility used to preserve the afterglow. Keeping inner voices and accompaniment from projecting too strongly helps bring out the subtle shading within its quiet expression.