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Piano Street Magazine:
The World of Piano Competitions – issue 2 2025

The World of Piano Competitions magazine is a well-established reference for anyone seeking a deeper understanding of today’s international classical piano landscape. In this new issue, Chopin stands at the centre — not merely as the focus of a competition, but as a celebration of a unique musical legacy. Read more

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Topic: I’ve heard many people hate on Chopin’s 2nd Prelude… but is it that bad? (Read 903 times)

jetrohbagonya21

PS Silver Member
Newbie
Posts: 13

I’ve heard many people hate on Chopin’s 2nd Prelude… but is it that bad?

on: January 23, 2026, 09:34:05 PM

Recently, I realized that millions of people around the world think that Chopin’s Prelude No. 2, Opus 28 is horrible. And yes, a few years ago had I sided with those who did think that, but after listening to the piece again, I figured that it isn’t so bad and nicely complements the rest of the set. This topic will be for people who want to talk about this controversial prelude or debate whether it should exist.

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keypeg

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Posts: 4023

Re: I’ve heard many people hate on Chopin’s 2nd Prelude… but is it that bad?

Reply #1 on: January 24, 2026, 07:12:04 AM

Apparently it's one I played (looked it up) and I kind of liked it.

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lelle

PS Gold Member
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Posts: 2680

Re: I’ve heard many people hate on Chopin’s 2nd Prelude… but is it that bad?

Reply #2 on: January 24, 2026, 07:39:37 AM

Where are people saying it's horrible?

It's genius.

Really moody and interesting use of dissonance especially for the time.

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dizzyfingers

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Posts: 620

Re: I’ve heard many people hate on Chopin’s 2nd Prelude… but is it that bad?

Reply #3 on: January 24, 2026, 03:06:52 PM

Quote from: lelle on January 24, 2026, 07:39:37 AM

Where are people saying it's horrible?
It's genius.
Really moody and interesting use of dissonance especially for the time.

It sounds much better on pianos from that era, Chopin's Pleyel to start - - the clear, light bass.
The LH sounds muddy on a modern piano. That's why people don't like it.
It takes a gifted pianist to render that LH in a musical way.

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