Preparation for Chopin's Nocturnes

[notturno]

Chopin's Nocturnes are some of my favorite pieces of piano music.  I would like to know what pieces I might learn to build my technique up to the level of the Nocturnes.  I've recently learned Chopin's Preludes #4 and #7, Bach's Invention #1, and some other level 1-4 pieces to give you an idea of my current level. I'm looking for pieces that would prepare me for both the technique and the musicality of the Nocturnes, so I'd like to stay away from exercises.  I find the LH arpeggios particularly challenging at this point.  Any recommendations would be welcome.  Alternately, would it be better to just jump into one of the easier Nocturnes?

Joseph

[BoliverAllmon]

I say jump into one of the easier ones.  I found the c min. posthumous quite easy. the rhtyhmn posed some problems, but it is real repetative.

[jas]

I think 9/1 in B-flat minor isn't a bad place to start. Although it has a couple of fast runs, it's not difficult, and it's got a lovely, Chopinesque melodic line that's an important thing to master if you're going to be playing Chopin's music, especially the Nocturnes.

Jas

[sissco]

9/1 is tooooo difficult

[jas]

9/1 is tooooo difficult

Do you think so? I often have trouble being able to tell what's too hard for people who haven't been playing very long.
I suggested it because it's good practice on the left hand arpeggios he mentioned, it'll help with his octave technique, it's got a simple cantabile melody and the runs can be missed out -- just stick to the original melody at first.

Actually, it probably will be too hard, now that I've read the original post properly!

Jas

[freakofnature]

Try the Nocturne No 5 by John Field - it sounds quite similar to the Chopin nocturnes, is quite a bit easier and sounds lovely. I've played it myself and had no big trouble.

[sissco]

  I want to play 9/1 as well but it sounds easier than it is...

Post. C# minor is VERY beautifull and pretty easy....55/1 is good to. 72/1 is a good challenge 

[quantum]

I'd say jump for an easier nocturne.  9/1 may be a bit much for a first nocturne.