Composition: Nocturne – e minor
Composed By: Frederic Chopin
Performed By: Mark Winkler
Date Recorded: 1974
Chopin Nocturne E Minor
While learning this Nocturne in 1974, at the age of 14, I made a memorable creative breakthrough. I was studying and analyzing the piece intensely when I suddenly felt I understood how to interpret a musical phrase. I had gained the confidence to make this piece work musically within my own creative vision.
My piano teacher at the time, Sister Gabriel Bruyere, was wise enough to let me follow my instincts and only chimed in when it was obvious I was lost. The creative freedom she allowed me gave me confidence. Confidence that later in life, enabled me to take the creative risks that would be so crucial to my success as an adult.
Nocturne means “night music” and this 3-minute jewel from Chopin is especially beautiful to listen to before going to sleep. Apologies for the technical quality of the track. But what do you expect? It was done in my parent’s basement — below their bedroom — in 1974!
