Interpretation of Frédéric Chopin’s pedal markings on modern pianos

Abstract

This project offers new approaches to pedaling in Frédéric Chopin’s piano works for modern pianos, utilizing Chopin’s original pedal markings. The project begins with the review of the existing literature regarding Chopin’s pedaling, including books, articles, dissertations, score sources, and audio materials. A brief explanation of historical and syncopated pedaling follows, including a comparison between Chopin’s piano (the Pleyel piano) and modern ones. The next, and central part of this paper is an analysis of Chopin’s musical style and pedaling, with detailed examples of selected works. Finally, the author presents his own pedaling suggestions, with modifications for modern pianos. The musical examples are selected from Chopin’s Mazurkas, Op. 41, Op. 50, and Op. 68; the Nocturnes; and the second movement from the Piano Concerto no. 1, Op. 11. The majority of musical examples are taken from the Polish National Edition (WN edition) edited by Jan Ekier (1913-2014). The aim of this project is to demonstrate why Chopin’s original pedal markings, when used with the necessary adaptations,are still preferable, and effective on modern instruments.