Frederic Chopin ： Rondo (introduction et rondo) Es-Dur Op.16

As its title suggests, the work moves from an introduction of contrasting character into a rondo in which a light, brilliant theme returns repeatedly. The contrast between the theme and the episodes, changes of key, and finely worked passagework give the music a wide range of expression. In performance, it is important to distinguish clearly between the introduction’s composed, speech-like manner and the rondo’s forward momentum. Rapid note sequences should not be forced, but played with clarity while maintaining a firm sense of meter, allowing the principal theme to stand out from the other voices. A sense of phrase direction and breathing within the brilliance helps clarify the overall structure.