| The purpose of this dissertation was to analyze Serge Rachmaninoff's Variations on a Theme of Chopin, op. 22, and to discuss performance preparation, supplemented by my own complete recording of the work. Despite the large scope and mature writing style displayed by op. 22, the piece is rarely performed and has not been featured extensively in scholarly publications. Rachmaninoff's compositional style within Chopin Variations features a combination of three major musical influences: 1. Historicism, 2. Romanticism, and 3. Improvisation. Historicism pays homage to past composers like Chopin or Bach. Romanticism exhibits rich harmonies, textures, and expressive devices reminiscent of Romantic piano literature. Improvisation employs compositional techniques that encourage a sense of exploration and free thought, such as the use of extended harmonies, chromaticism, and florid virtuosic musical figures. The analysis outlines the musical idioms and technical challenges of each variation. Solutions are provided for each variation's challenges, including suggestions for practicing routines, refinements to physical movement, pedaling, shaping of melodic lines, and application of rubato. The complete analysis may serve as a performance guide for pianists aspiring to learn, teach, or perform Chopin Variations. Furthermore, the dissertation suggests that op. 22 is an overlooked and mature work deserving of greater prominence in the standard piano performance repertoire. Further research on op. 22 may formulate and elucidate unique analyses and angles to shed light on Chopin Variations. |
