Ballades

Synopsis

(PWM). In his "Ballades" Chopin created a new, typically Romantic genre not known in earlier instrumental music. Includes the four Ballades: No. 1 in minor, Op. 23; No.2 in F major, Op. 38; No. 3 in A-flat Major, Op. 47; No. 4 in F minor, Op. 52. This Urtext edition includes ossia marked by Chopin himself or inscribed in his hand in pupils' copies. The National Edition of the Works of Fryderyk Chopin Published by PWM Exclusively Distributed by Hal Leonard Corporation Co-Editors Jan Ekier and Pawel Kaminski The objective of the National Edition is to present Chopin's complete output in its authentic form, based on the entire body of available sources. Sources were analyzed with up-to-date scientific and musicological methodology. The National Edition was based on sources originated from the composer, mainly autographs, copies of autographs and first editions with the composer's corrections, and pupils' copies with Chopin's annotations. In cases when original sources were lacking, the closest possible materials were used. Collecting the source materials was a laborious task which took years of effort. The characteristics of sources, the links and discrepancies between them as well as the reasons for particular editorial decisions are discussed in the Source Commentary in each volume. The Performance Commentary appended to each volume includes: the realization of ornaments, comments on pedal markings (the original markings sometimes are inadequate, due to the difference in sound between pianos used in Chopin`s times and modern pianos), suggestions as to the "harmonic legato" (a performance technique often used by Chopin and now forgotten). About the National Edition Full Introduction to the Polish National Edition of the Works of Fryderyk Chopin

Summary

Chapter 1: Origins and Early Ballads

* Traces the roots of ballads from oral traditions and minstrels.
* Explores early medieval ballads, such as "Sir Patrick Spens" and "The Hunting of the Cheviot."
* Real example: "Edward," an anonymous Scottish ballad from the 15th century, tells the haunting tale of a mother confronting her son about murdering his father.

Chapter 2: The Robin Hood Cycle

* Examines the popular Robin Hood ballads that emerged in the 14th century.
* Discusses the different versions and themes of the Robin Hood legend, focusing on his role as an outlaw and social rebel.
* Real example: "Robin Hood and Little John," a traditional ballad that depicts the encounter between Robin Hood and his loyal companion at Kirkby Wood.

Chapter 3: Ballads of Love, Loss, and Tragedy

* Explores the poignant and often tragic themes found in traditional ballads.
* Examines ballads about forbidden love, broken hearts, and untimely deaths.
* Real example: "Barbara Allen," an American ballad from the 19th century, tells the story of a cruel woman who rejects her lover and faces consequences for her actions.

Chapter 4: Supernatural and Historical Ballads

* Discusses ballads that delve into the supernatural realm, featuring ghosts, witches, and fairies.
* Explores historical ballads that commemorate real events and political struggles.
* Real example: "The Demon Lover," a Scottish ballad from the 18th century, tells the eerie tale of a woman haunted by a malevolent spirit.

Chapter 5: Modern Ballads and Adaptations

* Examines the legacy of traditional ballads and their influence on contemporary music.
* Explores modern ballads by artists such as Bob Dylan, Joan Baez, and Simon & Garfunkel.
* Real example: "Blowin' in the Wind" by Bob Dylan, a modern ballad that serves as a powerful anthem for social justice and peace.

Chapter 6: The Ballad Tradition in America

* Traces the evolution of ballad traditions in the United States, from the arrival of European settlers to the folk revival of the 20th century.
* Explores the unique characteristics and regional variations of American ballads.
* Real example: "Casey Jones," an American folk ballad from the early 20th century, tells the story of a legendary railroad engineer who died in a tragic train accident.

Chapter 7: The Ballad as a Literary Genre

* Analyzes the literary elements of ballads, including their narrative structure, use of rhyme and meter, and symbolism.
* Discusses the role of ballads in preserving cultural history and expressing human emotions.
* Real example: "The Rime of the Ancient Mariner" by Samuel Taylor Coleridge, a literary ballad from the 18th century that explores themes of guilt, redemption, and the power of nature.