FrÉDÉric Chopin 1810-1849

Chopin – the person Polish composer and virtuoso pianist Grew up in Warsaw (capital of Poland), and was a child prodigy. Moved to Paris when he was 21. Lived there the rest of his life and obtained French citizenship. Had a troubled relationship with the French writer George Sand. He had very poor health for his whole life. Died at age 39, probably of tuberculosis.

Chopin – the artist Wrote primarily for the piano (all his compositions include piano in some way). Most of his works are for solo piano. He was influenced by Polish folk music, as well as Bach, Mozart, and Schubert. He would visit and play in Paris salons (gatherings for cultural conversation). Chopin only gave 30 public performances in his lifetime. He was revered as a genius and the public loved his music. He was his own worst critic, and would spend six weeks on a single page of music.

Chopin – the hits Nocturne Op. 9, No. 2 Waltz No. 6 “Minute”

Chopin – the hits Continued Piano Sonata No. 2: Funeral March Polonaise Brillante: Yo-Yo Ma & Emanual Ax

Chopin – the hits continued Fantasie Impromptu Piano Concerto No. 1: III – Rondo Vivace (30:30)