Variations on “Là ci darem la mano” in B-flat major, op. 2, for piano and orchestra, is a showpiece which Frédéric Chopin wrote to display his pianistic prowess. prowess. Written in 1827 when Chopin was only seventeen years old, the young composer was ambitious to take up a career as a virtuoso-composer. A dazzling display of virtuosity, these variations are an early work that exemplify Chopin’s youthful exuberance. Nonetheless, one can discern many of the fine qualities of the mature Chopin. This research document aims to provide interpretational insights into and performance suggestions for the work. Specifically, this paper will discuss the strategies for overcoming technical difficulties based on my personal experiences. This paper will begin with a biographical sketch of Chopin along with historical background of the work itself. Following this is an analysis of the work combined with performance advice and practicing strategies. In addition, there will be discussions on the relationship between Chopin’s cantabile writing style and operatic singing techniques.

Anton Rubinstein was a notable pianist as well as a valued music educator; however, the lack of recognition for him as a composer motivated me to look more deeply into his compositions. Some of his pieces have never been recorded and are rarely performed today. Composer César Cui wrote a music critique titled “Anton Rubinstein” in The Musical World, that “his music has skilled harmonies and flowing melodies, but without innovations compared to his predecessors”. My hope is that this research project will foster more appreciation for his compositions from musicians and music enthusiasts. This project focuses on two of Anton Rubinstein’s works. The first, Deux Fantaisies sur des chansons populaires Russes, Op. 2, is based on two meditative and melancholic popular Russian tunes. For the second piece, Six Preludes, Op. 24, I will focus primarily on the first three preludes. This research paper includes the composer’s educational background, as well as the major figures surrounding him and highlighting potential influences on his compositions. A descriptive analysis of the works mentioned above is given for the purpose of better understanding the works through the perspectives of forms, comparisons to other compositions, and discussion of compositional styles. A performance guide is provided, giving practice tips for the musical and technical challenges in these pieces.