GE1 - First German edition


Publisher: Breitkopf & Härtel
Date: IX 1839
Plate number: 6088
Title: Vingt-quatre Préludes
Dedication: Son ami J. C. Kessler

GE1 is based on FC, Chopin took no part in its preparation. In the entire Op. 28 GE1 contains many adjustments and errors – see Prelude in no. 1. There are copies of GE1 which have differing covers, and the edition was also published in a version of 4 fascicules containing 6 preludes each.

The most significant interference with the notation of this Prelude is the notation of dotted rhythms against quaver triplets, which is incompatible with A (→FC). Other pronounced defects include: the erroneous 2nd bottom R.H. voice quaver on the 3rd beat of b. 2c instead of d, and the tie to B in b. 12, misinterpreted as a slur.

The majority of overlooked accidentals (by Chopin) were added, also those less obvious, in b. 7 and 8.

Original in: Jan Ekier private collection, Warsaw
Shelf-mark: II.6