Frederic Chopin ： Polonaise no.4 c-moll Op.40-2

Chopin’s Polonaise No. 4 is a tense work marked by the dotted rhythms and strong accents characteristic of the polonaise. At the opening, the principal theme should be presented clearly, maintaining a sense of forward motion within the weighty sonority. In the contrasting middle section, listen for the lyrical quality of the melody and the changes in harmony. When the opening material returns, the overall tension rises once again. In performance, it is important to preserve the steady tread of the dance, keep the left-hand rhythm together, and allow the right-hand melody to sing. Rather than exaggerating the dynamic contrasts, balance the weight and flow of the sound so that the shadows within its strength can emerge.