F. Chopin, “Waterfall” Etude, Op. 10, no. 1

An etude (pronouced “ey-tood”) is the French word for "study". Studies/etudes are written to focus on specific technical challenges at the piano. They began as only exercises; however, as the piano developed in the Romantic Era, composers such as Chopin and Liszt elevated the etude from a practice room exercise to dazzling masterpieces fit for the concert stage!

As Chopin’s etudes gained popularity, they were given nicknames - Chopin did not assign these names himself. The “Waterfall” etude is extremely demanding, with widely spaced arpeggios spanning 4 octaves played nonstop for the entire piece. In addition to the stretchy arpeggios which must be played a smooth legato touch, you will notice the tempo is does not make it any easier.

While the music is demanding, you’ll notice a great pianist always looks relaxed and at ease while playing the piano. One must have a refined technique, free of tension to execute this etude musically and accurately. One may think this is achieved after playing a vast amount of notes, but this is not true - good technique is only developed by paying close attention to how every single note is played, no matter how few or how many, over a long period of time. (Start practicing your scales/chords/arpeggios now!)

I’ve included 2 videos: a live performance where you are able to observe the pianist’s fine technique, and one with the score for those who want to try and follow along.

Questions

Define the following terms: etude, legato, octave, tempo
Observe the pianist’s technique and describe it at your next lesson. Everything from sitting position, hand position and elbow movement contribute to playing piano successfully - comfortably and tension free.

Virtuoso pianist Vladimir Horowitz, who refused to perform this étude in public, said, "For me, the most difficult one of all (the études) is the C Major, the first one, Op. 10, No. 1."