Waltz in A-flat major, Op. 42, is a lively

waltz The waltz ( ), meaning "to roll or revolve") is a ballroom and folk dance, normally in triple ( time), performed primarily in closed position. History There are many references to a sliding or gliding dance that would evolve into the w ...

composed by Frédéric Chopin in 1840.

Background

Though none of Chopin's works were actually intended to be danced to, this waltz does appear to be appropriate for use in the ballroom. It is often considered to be one of the finest of Chopin's waltzes.

Analysis

The piece begins with an eight-

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introductory

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on the dominant, calling for the dance to begin. The opening melody of the work is light and in

duple time Duple metre (or Am. duple meter, also known as duple time) is a musical metre characterized by a ''primary'' division of 2 beats to the bar, usually indicated by 2 and multiples (simple) or 6 and multiples (compound) in the upper figure of the tim ...

, it is accompanied with a 3/4 left hand accompaniment. This waltz contains many virtuosic passages and a mesmerizing coda, making it a favourite with audiences. It is often considered one of Chopin's most important waltzes and is also one of the most challenging to play.

Appreciation

U.S. President

Harry S. Truman Harry S. Truman (May 8, 1884December 26, 1972) was the 33rd president of the United States, serving from 1945 to 1953. A leader of the Democratic Party, he previously served as the 34th vice president from January to April 1945 under Franklin ...

, an amateur pianist, told friends that Chopin's Waltz in A-flat major was one of his favorite compositions.

References

External links

* *, performed by

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{{Authority control 1840 compositions Waltzes by Frédéric Chopin Compositions in A-flat major