Like the four previous waltzes Chopin had written, this E flat major effort was published posthumously. In fact, about half the waltzes that followed it were not published in the composer's lifetime—most likely an indication he harbored doubts about their artistic worth. He need not have questioned their value, however, as most are at least minor gems, and some are full-fledged masterpieces.

This E flat major Waltz may not qualify for the latter category, but its charms are irresistible nonetheless. The main theme is robust and ebullient, weighty and somewhat oafish in its raucous jollity. There is something of the earthy peasant in this invention, merry and carefree, and lacking a certain measure of elegance. The brief middle section is delicate and contrasts splendidly with the main theme. The ending is deliberately abrupt, coming after a repeat of the opening melody and then finding itself capped by a single, not particularly resolute bass note. This waltz lasts a little over two minutes in a typical performance.

© All Music Guide

Portions of Content Provided by All Music Guide.
© 2008 All Media Guide, LLC. All Music Guide is a registered trademark of All Media Guide, LLC.