The Life of Frédéric Chopin “Poet of the Piano”

Overview Born on March 1, 1810 in Zelazowa, Poland. World renowned virtuosic pianist and composer. Known for his originality in regards to the piano

Major Works Chopin composed almost primarily for the piano and some of his most well known compositions are listed below. –Fantaisie in F minor, Op. 49 –Revolutionary Etude, Op. 10, No. 12 –24 Preludes, Op. 28

Childhood Family moved to Warsaw, Poland shortly after Chopin’s birth. Began playing piano at 4. Composed two Polonaises (Solemn Polish Dance) at the age of 7. Labeled a child “prodigy”

Biography Studied piano at Warsaw Conservatory under Wilhelm Würfel. Heavily influenced by Polish folk music. Finished his formal education at the Higher School in 1829.

Biography (cont.) Traveled Europe giving concerts in places such as Vienna, Munich, Paris, and London. During this time Chopin was constantly working on new compositions.

War at Home While in Vienna, there was a revolt in Poland against the Russian Czar who ruled the nation. A war ensued, and eventually Poland fell completely under Russian control.

War at Home (cont.) Distraught over the disaster in Poland, Chopin nearly had a nervous breakdown. As a result of the war, thousands of Poles emigrated to less hostile countries.

Vienna While staying in Vienna, Chopin’s compositions became more expressive and helped to create his own individual style. Example: Etudes, Op. 10

Paris In 1831, Chopin arrived in Paris to further his career. While there, he met and befriended other legendary composers such as…

Composers Franz Lizst (Above Left) Felix Mendelssohn (Above) Robert Schumann (Left)

George Sand Also while in Paris, Chopin met and married the famous French writer George Sand. She was a source of inspiration as well as a maternal figure in Chopin’s life. Alas…

George Sand (cont.) The couple separated in 1847, leaving Chopin emotionally crushed.

Chopin’s Death After that, Chopin’s health began to decline. He was diagnosed with pulmonary tuberculosis Chopin died on October 17 th, 1849, in Paris.

In Closing Chopin’s music is recognized worldwide for its beauty and complexity. His works on the piano are staples in the piano repertoire.

Further Listening Most any of Chopin’s works are critically acclaimed, but some of his most famous are: –Chopin Etudes –Chopin Impromptus –Chopin Waltzes

Works Cited The following websites were used to create this presentation: – –Classical Music Page