Two phrases with almost identical rhythm, bars 57-60 and 61-64, include a quaver at the beginning of the 2nd and 3rd bars, followed by a semiquaver rest. In each of the two authentic sources, two out of these four quavers are provided with staccato dots:
- in FC these are the quavers in bars 58 and 62, hence the first in each phrase, while
- in FE these are the quavers in bars 58-59, hence both in the first phrase.
Although each solution could be considered reasonable, it is difficult to assume that Chopin could have changed or even hesitated between these versions while preparing the Mazurka for publication. This is because the 1st note being played staccato followed by a rest defines the Mazurka characteristic dance gesture. Therefore, it is much more likely that the original Chopinesque notation was inaccurately reproduced, e.g. with three dots, in bars 58-59 and 62. Therefore, we give this alleged version in the main text; in addition, we suggest adding a dot also in the 4th place (bar 63). Figures provided with identical rhythm are numerous in the Mazurka main theme, bars 9-24 and 79-94. It is also there, in spite of the fact that in both sources there are many places without staccato dots, that the general picture is unquestionable – in Chopin's intention, all these quavers were supposed to be provided with dots.
category imprint: Differences between sources
issues: Errors of FC
notation: Articulation, Accents, Hairpins
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