The Waltz in C-sharp minor is a fine example of the character and mood of Chopin’s later waltzes. Beginning with a poignant sigh, the first theme of the waltz has somewhat of a character of despair hanging over it. The rhythm of the Mazurka makes its appearance in third and fourth bars with the accent of each measure’s motif naturally falling on the third beat.
The waltz’s second theme adopts a faster tempo and a melody of running eighth notes. Occupying the central position of the waltz, the third and last theme, a lyrical dolce melody, changes to the key of the tonic major and returns to a slower pace.
Amid graceful ornamentations and syncopations in both melody and harmony, this central theme disguises an intense yearning heightened by frequent chromatic harmonies, and this leads to the composition’s conclusion.
Here is pianist Evgeny Kissin to play this Chopin waltz for you:
