Nocturne no. 2 in Eb Major

Performance (Played by Rubinstein)

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Structure

Widely regarded as Chopin's most famous piece, you have definitely heard this at least once before. This piece is in E flat major and 12/8 time signature, coming out to 34 measures total. Unlike the first piece, this follows a slightly more convoluted structure than the first. Instead of ABA, it's AABABA with a coda at the end. The only differences in these repeating sections are the embellishments to the melody.Each section is only 4 bars, These embellishments include adding chromatic notes, increasing the tension present in the piece.The left hand of this piece features more of a waltz type accompaniment throughout all the sections.

Signifigance

As this piece is Chopin's most recognizable and famous, Naturally it caused his career to skyrocket both when he was alive and up unitl the present. As it has gained so much popularity, it is often overplayed and played poorly. This does not take away from how good the piece actually is however, as it is popular for a reason.

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