PlayPiano
The short answer
A portrait called Chopin, composed by Schumann. Chopin, from Carnaval, Op. 9 No. 12 is a character piece by Robert Schumann from the Romantic era. PlayPiano puts it at Level 7, an estimate.
- character piece
- Romantic
- Key of A-flat major
- dreamy
Also known as Carnaval, Op. 9 No. 12: Chopin (by Schumann).
History
This piece called Chopin was written by Robert Schumann, not by Chopin. It is a character portrait within Carnaval, whose cast mixes theatrical figures with personalities from Schumann’s world. The short title is therefore a clue to the person portrayed, while the composer credit remains Schumann.
Sources
What to listen for
A repeated-note gesture starts the song
The opening repeated-note gesture launches the movement. Hear it as the start of a longer line rather than separate equally weighted sounds.
Related phrases receive a higher response
The opening shape develops through related phrases and a higher answer. Follow that upward response within the singing contour.
A flourish changes the closing gestures
The upper flourish leads into related closing material. Hear its connection to the slower response that precedes it.
How to practise it
Keep the arching support quiet as the melody appears.
- Practise the upper entries from their preceding rests rather than starting directly on the notes.
- Practise the lower ascent and return separately at a quiet volume, then join them.
- Connect the examined phrase at a comfortable tempo while keeping its stated layers and releases distinct.
How hard is it
Ornamented lyrical writing and chordal support require expressive timing and clear melodic balance.
About this piece
- Collection
- Small scenes, big imagination
- Licence
- CC0
- Source
- musescore.com
More by Robert Schumann
- Album for the Young, Op. 68 No. 1, MélodieLevel 2, estimatedOpen to everyone
- Träumerei, Kinderszenen Op. 15 No. 7Level 6, estimatedWith Maestro
- Toccata in C major, Op. 7Level 10, estimatedWith Maestro
