Probably because of its folkloristic elements, Chopin clearly preferred the Mazurka to other forms. With few exceptions, such as the F major Mazurka, Op. 68, no. 3, he did not use well known popular melodies, but rather sought inspiration from the rhythmic-melodic elements of Polish folkdances, the Oberek, the Mazur, and the Kujawiak. From Chopin's own remarks about the Op. 6 Mazurkas, it is clear that his Mazurkas are in a stylized dance form and are 'not for dancing' Editor: Ewald Zimmermann, Fingering: Hans-Martin Theopold. Later intermediate to Advanced Level. |
