Composed in 1847, this lyrical waltz in A-flat major showcases Chopin's poetic elegance. Unlike the virtuosic Op.64 No.1, it features a reflective melody with gentle rhythms, often described as a "farewell waltz" due to its placement in his final published set.
This melancholic waltz, contrasting sharply with the famous "Minute Waltz" from the same opus, showcases Chopin's mastery of lyrical phrasing and harmonic tension. Its distinctive three-theme structure (A-B-C-B-A-B) creates a circular narrative, while the sudden shift to D♭ major in Theme C offers temporary respite before returning to the dramatic C♯ minor.
Composed in 1847, this iconic waltz is commonly known as the "Minute Waltz" due to its fleeting tempo, though a typical performance lasts 1.5-2 minutes. Its playful D-flat major melody evokes a small dog chasing its tail, earning it the alternative French title "Valse du petit chien."
