We have a collection of 8 arrangements for Frédéric Chopin - Marche funèbre, Op.72 No.2
Which famous composer's own funeral featured performances of this very march? Learn!
Frédéric Chopin's "Marche funèbre" (Funeral March) is the second movement of his Piano Sonata No. 2 in B-flat minor, Op. 35. Here are some interesting facts about this famous piece:
Origin: The Funeral March is one of Chopin's most famous compositions. It was composed in 1837, but the complete sonata, including the Funeral March, wasn't published until 1839.
Dedication: Chopin dedicated this sonata to Countess Delphine Potocka, one of his close friends and admirers. The sonata as a whole and the Funeral March, in particular, are believed to reflect Chopin's personal emotions and struggles.
Famous Usage: The Funeral March is perhaps most well-known for its use in funerals and memorial services. It has been played at numerous famous funerals, including that of President John F. Kennedy.
Structure: The movement itself is in a ternary form (ABA). The A section features the mournful, melancholic melody that is most commonly associated with the piece, while the B section offers some relief with a more lyrical and contrasting theme.
Tempo: It is marked as Lento, which means it should be played slowly and solemnly, emphasizing the mournful and somber mood.
Dynamic Contrast: One of the striking features of the Funeral March is the dramatic dynamic contrast, from soft and introspective passages to thunderous, powerful chords, representing the emotional turmoil and intensity of grief.
Chopin's Influences: The Funeral March reflects Chopin's admiration for the Polish composer Michał Kleofas Ogiński's "Funeral March for Józef Poniatowski." Ogiński's work had a significant impact on Chopin's composition.
Influence on Later Composers: This composition had a profound influence on later composers, particularly in the Romantic period, inspiring them to explore the emotional depth and expressiveness of funeral marches in their own works.
Frequently Performed: The Funeral March is a favorite piece for pianists to perform and has been recorded by countless musicians over the years. It remains a staple in the classical piano repertoire.
Emotional Impact: The Funeral March is known for its ability to evoke strong emotions in listeners. It's often associated with sadness, grief, and reflection, making it a powerful piece of music.
This composition is a masterpiece that continues to touch the hearts of those who hear it, and its timeless beauty ensures that it will be remembered for generations to come.