Chopin: Quatre scherzos & Sonate No. 2 "Marche funèbre"

Immerse yourself in the timeless elegance of Frédéric Chopin's piano mastery with this exquisite collection, released in 2020 by Warner Classics. This album features Chopin's four iconic Scherzos and his profound Piano Sonata No. 2 in B-Flat Minor, Op. 35, famously known as the "Funeral March." Each piece is a testament to Chopin's unparalleled ability to evoke deep sentiment and technical brilliance through his compositions.

The album opens with the dramatic Scherzo No. 1 in B Minor, Op. 20, followed by the intense Scherzo No. 2 in B-Flat Minor, Op. 31. The collection continues with the haunting Scherzo No. 3 in C-Sharp Minor, Op. 39, and concludes the scherzos with the uplifting Scherzo No. 4 in E Major, Op. 54. These works showcase Chopin's mastery of form and his unique ability to blend technical virtuosity with expressive depth.

The centerpiece of the album is Chopin's Piano Sonata No. 2, a monumental work that includes the famous "Funeral March." This sonata is divided into four movements: the somber and reflective "Grave - Doppio movimento," the lively and intricate "Scherzo," the poignant and well-known "Marche funèbre. Lento," and the exhilarating "Finale. Presto." Each movement offers a different facet of Chopin's genius, from profound introspection to exhilarating virtuosity.

This album is a must-listen for both classical enthusiasts and those new to Chopin's music. With a duration of 54 minutes, it provides a concise yet comprehensive overview of some of Chopin's most beloved and influential works. Whether you are familiar with Chopin's music or discovering it for the first time, this collection is sure to captivate and inspire.

Frédéric Chopin, born in 1810 near Warsaw to a French father and Polish mother, was a virtuoso pianist and composer who left an indelible mark on the Romantic era. Renowned for his poetic genius and unparalleled technical prowess, Chopin's compositions, primarily for solo piano, continue to captivate audiences worldwide. His repertoire, including iconic pieces like the Preludes, Nocturnes, and Waltzes, showcases his emotional depth and innovative musical style. Chopin's life, though brief, was marked by his extraordinary talent, which he began displaying at the tender age of seven. His debut in Vienna at just 19 years old set the stage for a career that would solidify his status as one of the greatest composers of his time. Chopin's music, characterized by its expressive melodies and intricate harmonies, remains a cornerstone of classical piano repertoire, inspiring generations of musicians and enthusiasts alike.