Chopin's Scherzo No. 2 in B-flat minor is especially notable for its sotto voce opening that seems to represent a kind of question and answer. Chopin himself used the piece in his teaching and admonished his pupils to play the first measures in a manner that evoked the image of a mortuary.
The mysterious opening motif, so short and quiet that it's almost inaudible, is followed by a very loud, majestic statement. This exchange happens numerous times before we get to the vibrant flowing melody that is repeated with variation throughout the piece. In the B section, things become quieter and more contemplative. It is almost as if the original "questioning" voice were returning to speak at a greater length, which it does with increasing confidence, making more and more emphatic statements before leading back to the return of the opening section and on to the magnificent coda, one of Chopin’s most tumultuous endings. This is indeed a fascinating piece with an interesting structure, well worth a close study.
I have just finished Liszt's Hungarian Rhapsody no. 2. It's nowhere near "concert quality", but it sounds decent. I've looked through the Scherzo and played through the first page. There's nothing too bad about it (the big run took a little while, but that's it) and it looks like it repeats a lot, so there's not a lot to learn. I don't think it's harder than Hungarian Rhapsody no. 2, right? I've heard people say that there are some big stretches, but I can stretch from a C to the next F in my left hand, and from a C to the next E in my right. That shouldn't be a problem, right?
Also, what are the most difficult parts of the Scherzo?
I have an upcoming recital in six months and I have narrowed it down to two pieces: Schumann/Liszt - Widmung Chopin - Scherzo No.2
What do you think are the pros and cons of each song? To you, which one is more difficult? What should I watch out for in each piece? Thank you for all of your help!
i just wanted to ask you: the second time we return to Bb minor (after the A major section), how do you play those arpeggios? Is it wrong to begin from the upper note to the last ? or is it better if i take some time to play the voicings?it can't be strictly on tempo!!
I would like to know your opinion about if I am prepared for studying Chopin Scherzo nº2 in B flat major.
The most difficult pieces I play are Chopin etudes 25 nº1 and nº2, and first mvt of Beethoven's Pathetique Sonata (this one only at 140). How is Scherzo compared to these works?
I've read a post by Berhnard dividing its first part into chunks, so I would like to give it a try.
Can someone give some info on how to play this section of the scherzo n2. I have been practicing it for a few hours and my right hand is starting to hurt. anyway.. What would the correct fingering be? I have been using: 5 4321 and then 4321 321
I have played piano for 10 years. I am finish fantaisie impromptu now. I had some trouble learning this (especially the cross rythm), but after two months I now have it almost at consert level.
My question is how far above my level are the chopin scherzo no.2 or ballad no.1? Could I jump right to one of these, or should I have some more Chopin experience first? I have not played any of his etudes, any advise of (manageable) etudes to prepare me for this?
Hi, I can now play Chopin Scherzo no.2 in B flat minor alright. I would like to start the second Scherzo. I am thinking of Scherzo no.1. Can anyone here played this piece and give me some advice? Thanx
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Frédéric Chopin - Scherzi :
Piano score: PS Urtext (339 kB) 
