In A1 Chopin repeated here the rhythm of analogous b. 15. It must be the initial version, which is additionally proven by the chromatic orthography, left unchanged (c
3 instead of d3 – cf. the note to b. 15). According to Chopin's intention, the rhythmic variation of the version of [A2] (→CJ,CK) was most probably related to a subtle differentiation of the character of this figure, which seems to be more of a declamatory nature at the beginning of the discussed bar. It is puzzling how the initial rhythm ended up in CB and EL, since neither Balakirev nor Kolberg nor Szulc had access to A1. According to us, in both sources an arbitrary change was performed on the basis of comparison with b. 15, in which the rhythm creates a smooth, natural accelerando of the descending sequence. In EL the change was introduced only just in print, which is proven by the notes having been arranged according to the rhythm of CJ and CK.
Compare the passage in the sources »
category imprint: Interpretations within context; Differences between sources; Corrections & alterations
issues: Main-line changes, Balakirev's revisions, Revisions in EL
notation: Rhythm