Today’s post is for fans of classical music – in particular, that of the Romantic composer, Frédéric Chopin (1810 – 1849). Chopin is famous for many things, but his nocturnes (short solo works for the piano) no doubt have a special place in the hearts of many music lovers.

Two of Chopin’s nocturnes (Op. 62, Nos. 1 and 2, 1846) – composed three years before his death – represent the pinnacle of Chopin’s achievements in the genre. The mood in these pieces is detached, controlled and exhibits a rarefied, almost divine calm. The B major (my focus today) serves as a good example to showcase the composer’s late melodic style.

As you listen to the recording (by the great pianist, Vladimir Horowitz), notice how the work opens with a simple melody, then turns into a spirited declaration that hints at the middle section. Throughout both sections, the melody is lightly decorated, though it is punctuated at times with interruptions and discontinuities that nevertheless culminate in dramatic flourish. It is precisely because of the simplicity of the overall shape of the piece that when we reach the reprise of the main theme, this reprise emerges as one of Chopin’s most impressive achievement in nocturne compositions.