Little Polish Dance

This is a short mazurka of 25 measures, but its character changes significantly depending on the performance. First, it is important to note the accent placed on the second beat. Many measures have an accent marked on the note of the second beat. This rhythm is characteristic of a mazurka. The first tip I would like to offer is to avoid "rushing into" the accented note on the second beat. The following discussion will focus on timing.

In other words, do not rush when moving from the first beat to the second beat. Take ample time to play the note on the second beat. Then, compensate for the time extended from the first to the second beat in other measures, ensuring consistency (in the sense of rubato, it's not about continuously extending or compressing time, but rather compressing elsewhere what has been extended, and extending elsewhere what has been compressed). For example, if you slightly extend the time from the first to the second beat in measure 1, then in measures 2 and 3, you should push the music forward, and in measure 4, extend it again just a little.

In measure 9, the B section is marked animato. This section should be played not like a metronome, but rather improvisationally, lively, and quickly.

Learners are encouraged to listen to many performances of mazurkas to learn their unique timing.

Points to Note

In measure 9, the right-hand sixth should be played so that the first finger does not become too prominent, and the upper G is clearly audible. The same applies to measure 13. Between measures 9-12 and 13-16, vary the dynamics, slight tempo, and mood. Never play them identically.

There are two sentimental measures:

• Measure 15
• Measure 23

Each is formed from chords known as German 6/5 and Italian 6, respectively, creating a unique harmonic atmosphere. Treat them specially.

In measure 24, pedal markings are indicated, but learners who have not yet studied the pedal should sustain all notes written in this measure with their fingers as they enter measure 25. This will achieve the same effect as the pedal.