Lecture: Discovering Chopin’s Preludes

Frédéric Chopin’s 24 Preludes, Op. 28, are masterpieces in miniature — each one a complete musical world spanning every major and minor key. Join piano faculty member Crystal Jiang and composition chair Evan Meier for a conversation and performance exploring the striking depth and innovation that make these brief works cornerstones of the piano repertoire at all levels.

Highlights of the Event:

• Learn about Chopin’s influences as he wrote the preludes and his groundbreaking advances in composing for the piano.
• Deepen your listening skills by understanding how melody, harmony, rhythm, structure, and style shape these works.
• Gain insight into the artistic and technical demands of musical performance.
• Discover how pianists approach the preludes at different stages of development.

This event, featuring live performances by Crystal Jiang and Levine piano students, offers a look into Chopin’s music through the eyes of both the student and the professional musician.