Chopin: Preludes, Op. 28

Featuring

Andrew Tyson
Frédéric Chopin

Did you know?

1/7

Interpretation

Despite Chopin's disagreement with programmatic interpretations, his Preludes have inspired many, such as the nickname 'The Raindrop' for Prelude No. 15, based on an anecdote from Majorca.

Performer Biography

Andrew Tyson, hailed by BBC Radio 3 as "a real poet of the piano," is recognized for his commanding and expressive performances.

Composition History

Chopin completed his 24 Preludes, Op. 28, on the island of Majorca before January 22, 1839, when he sent the manuscript to his friend Julian Fontana for copying.

Critical Reception

Franz Liszt, who edited Chopin's Preludes in 1877, marvelled at their innovative scope, describing them as "poetic preludes" that lull the soul.

Cultural Impact

Chopin's Preludes Op. 28 have been imitated by many composers, including Scriabin, Debussy, Frank Martin, and even Gershwin, though none achieved the same profound mystery.

Performer Biography

Andrew Tyson is a recipient of the prestigious Avery Fisher Career Grant and won the Fifth Prize at the 2012 Leeds International Piano Competition.

Compositional Technique

Unlike Bach's Preludes, which are followed by fugues, Chopin's Preludes Op. 28 are paradoxically not a prelude to any other piece, making them 'independent' preludes.