Chopin: Which pieces to learn?

[sc3499]

So I've started to play the piano again after a 10+ year hiatus. I've just bought the book 'Chopin Complete Preludes, Nocturnes and Waltzes' but I have no idea where to start. Can someone recommend some of the easier pieces for me to start with? Thank you in advance

[faa2010]

In my point of view, the Preludes are a good start because they are short.

[sc3499]

In my point of view, the Preludes are a good start because they are short.

Any ones in particular? Or should I just go through them in sequence?

[lorditachijr]

No. 4 in E Minor was the first that I did. It's a neat piece, and Chopin in fact requested it to be performed at his funeral. You could look at the list of the preludes on this website; it has a grade level for each one. You also might want to check out some technical exercises just to rebuild your muscles. What were you playing before your hiatus? That might help to decide what you should do next.

[sc3499]

No. 4 in E Minor was the first that I did. It's a neat piece, and Chopin in fact requested it to be performed at his funeral. You could look at the list of the preludes on this website; it has a grade level for each one. You also might want to check out some technical exercises just to rebuild your muscles. What were you playing before your hiatus? That might help to decide what you should do next.

Perfect, that list is exactly what I was after. Thank you

I was about Grade 8 (ABRSM) although I only ever took my Grade 6 exam. I would estimate I'm about Grade 5 at the moment?

Having realised I'm floundering, not sure what to do next, I've taken the plunge and booked a lesson for next week so hopefully that will give me a lot more direction. I daresay the first thing I'll be told is to work more on my scales, arpeggios and broken chords... 

[larapool]

I would also recommend looking at Preludes No. 7 and 20.  Wonderfully complementary pieces to No. 4!