Customer Reviews

Chopin -- An Introduction to His Piano Works (Alfred Masterwork Editions)

5 star:		(4)
4 star:		(2)
3 star:		(0)
2 star:		(1)
1 star:		(0)

 

 

This doesn't try to be really challanging, but it does give tons of good pieces to start with. I'd say it's a good way to get to know our friend Chopin and his music. It has a pretty even mix of various music styles from Preludes to a Polonaise or two. In general the pieces get harder as you progress through the book (as is usual). The volume is clean and does contain some suggestions on how to play some tricky parts. However, these suggestions are written in the book with the lightest of font which can make reading them a chore (the darkness varies to show what was written by Chopin and what is simply suggested). As I said before: it's a good beginning book which will prepare you for some more comprehensive volumes.

As a piano teacher I am always searching for collections that are user

friendly for my students. This collection contains shorter works, in their original form, with accurate detail and editorial suggestions

as to interpretation. I would recommend this book to everyone wanting

a first time introduction to Chopin's most famous works!

Alas, the last waltz suffered two cuts.

Well, 18 whole pieces out of nineteen is almost perfect.

This is an interesting piece of work. It has a good overview of the composition style Frederick Chopin, i.e. technical analysis. Then selected works (scores) are presented. This is all backed up with a CD of the works being discussed. A nice progression from just listening to the music itself. Also, very good value for the money.

I am an adult taking piano lessons for almost 4 years now (in December). I enjoy this book tremendously. I will be playing the Waltz in A minor later this October for my level 6 syllabus along with Bach Invention 1 and Satie Gymnopedie 1. Chopin pieces are challenging to learn but so lovely to listen to and the accomplishment feeling was just so great. This book is just perfect as an introductory to Chopin (I think these pieces are start at level 6 and up). There are so many beautiful pieces that I wish I can play right now, but I'm not good enough yet (hopefully, in a few more years :)). Nocturne in C minor (I love this one), Waltz in B minor, Preludes, Polonaise and Mazurka... just little taste of everything from Chopin... and they are all great pieces.

If you are serious about learning piano and want to progress, I really strongly encourage to take piano lessons from a teacher because his/her experience can help you learn to play so much faster and importantly, the right way. I have learned so much from my piano teacher and it would be impossible for me to even get anywhere if I was self taught. It is hard work and commitment, but just keep on learning, you will be happy you did. Play on:)

I bought this for my daughter on our piano teacher's advice; full of good basics for an intermediate player. This will be a valuable addition to our growing stack of music books; and Chopin is always easy listening.

Well arranged and clear.

I was disappointed as the most famous pieces of chopin are not here. I did not like or feel compelled to play any of the musics of this book. Of course I understand that the best pieces of chopin are hard to play, but I am sure there are some easy/medium ones like preludes that are not here.