Waltz in C♯ minor, Op. 64 No. 2

F. ChopinOp. 64 No. 2

Key

C#m

Time

3/4

Tempo

♩=80

AO focus

AO2

Form

Tempo giusto — ABACA rondo. Three contrasted themes: melancholy A in C♯ minor, faster B with D♭ major contrast, lyrical central C in D♭ major. One of Chopin's three most-played waltzes.

Teaching points

• Three contrasted themes — discuss form and how Chopin balances them
• Tempo flexibility — A is reflective, B is faster, C is dolce. Coach the gear-changes
• Practical: Grade 7-8 standard