Frédéric Chopin Valse F Minor Op.70 No.2 Historical Tempo

Composed in 1835 but published posthumously in 1855, Chopin’s Waltz in F minor, Op.70 No.2, is a graceful yet melancholic piece that blends elegance with introspection. Unlike many of his brighter, more virtuosic waltzes, this one carries a more subdued, reflective character, showcasing Chopin’s gift for turning a dance form into a deeply expressive musical statement. The piece moves fluidly between F minor and A flat major, offering both contrast and cohesion. It remains a favorite among pianists for its emotional depth and refined beauty. The metronome marking of quarter note = 144 should be understood as the full swing of a pendulum, meaning it covers both the forward and backward motion. In other words, the effective tempo felt by the musician is actually half as fast as the marking suggests. Interpreting the tempo as simply 144 quarter notes per minute, without this pendulum-like understanding, makes it difficult to capture the natural flow and character Chopin intended. Often, extreme rubato is applied in an attempt to convey the character of the piece, but this approach conflicts with what Chopin explicitly wanted — a steady accompaniment in the left hand. The regularity of the left hand’s rhythm is essential to maintaining the dance’s pulse and elegance, and excessive tempo fluctuations risk undermining this fundamental aspect. In my performance, I therefore try to play only the right hand with free tempo, while keeping the left hand steady. I hope that through this approach, I have come closer to capturing the true spirit of Chopin.