Frederick Chopin wrote four ballades, a term he was the first to apply to a music composition, having been normally associated with poetry and song.
The first of these Ballades is a piece full of drama, the impact of which grows on every hearing. It does not appear to have any particular reference or story behind it, but unquestionably you can detect a story of sorts unfolding, with elements of despair, yearning and hope all in the mix.
The music starts simply enough, with a joyful climactic moment a few minutes in, preceded by the sweetest of melodies; before launching into a blistering phase of speed and technical wizardry. The last eighty seconds, ending with an agonizing downward scale, will have you on the edge of your seat.
Here is Ms. Liu performing Chopin’s Ballade #1:
