Notation?

[JoeM]

Please find attached part of a score of Chopin Scherzo Op.31. Could you please explain items #1, #2 and #3.

I assume that item #1 where the stem means to hold the g note for 3/4 beat (based on the upward stem). If this is the case what does item #2 mean with the upward stem of 1/8th of note?

[dbjorck]

Hi!

The double stems mean that there are two melodies converging on the same note. But you don't play them twice. In the first case you hold the first note for the duration of the bar. In the third case you just hold it for one beat. In the second case though, it is the same duration for both notes, an eighth, so just emphasize it more than regular. The other two should also be emphasized more to bring out that melody.

Brgds

Danny

[JoeM]

Thank you Danny.

[johnnykeyboard]

Hi,

With the pedal markings the way they are, it really doesn't make a big difference on the duration of the notes, but I agree with Danny that those notes should be emphasized. Try recording the piece with a piano voice, and then adding something like a cello for the double stemmed melody paying particular attention to the rhythm (duration). This helps me understand what the composer wants.

..........Johnny Keyboard...........

[JoeM]

Thank you johnnykeyboard. I will attempt your suggestion of adding a cello for the double stemmed melody once I can play a couple of pages at a reasonable speed. It should sound good.