Tchaikovsky P.I. | Valse Sentimentale arr. piano
Channel: PlentyMusic
Date: 26/05/2023

An intermediate level piano solo arrangement of Tchaikovsky’s Valse Sentimentale Opus 51 No.6.  In this cut version an alternative ending is provided which simplifies Tchaikovsky’s original cadenza like coda.  sheet music link: https://plentymusic.uk/short/?c=9kL4j30 

Players can see the intended cadenza on the ossia staff and can develop their own closing section which may combine a combination of rhythmic patterns and melodic shapes. Formally this short version of the movement can be described to be in ternary form ABA with a short coda as a closing section. Originally composed as a piano solo and dating from 1882 it is described as salon music intended in its time to be performed as drawing room music rather than in the concert hall. This is music ideally suited to being performed in intimate surrounds. As a movement a waltz needs to have a one in the bar feel to it rather than three beats to the bar. The playback tempo of the realisation is 46 dotted half notes (minim) beats to the minute. It is a movement that requires subtle changes of tempo in the tempo rubato sense. The waltz is a dance and as much of Tchaikovsky’s music is associated with ballet, the Valse Sentimental needs to played with an awareness of movement. The music needs to glide or ebb and flow. If played strictly in time the music becomes quite dull. A movement that is excellent for developing an understanding of performance practice in the romantic / late romantic tradition. A perfect movement to understand how to manage tempo in music in the playing sense and to understand how rubato should work and be used in a music performance.  The melody needs to be played legato. In the cadenza like coda beginning at bar where the music has a more dramatic quality and is marked meno mosso it is more practicable to approach this section with a three in the bar feel to the music. Use of the sustaining pedal is recommended by the piano accompanist but not indicated in the sheet music score apart from the first couple of bars. The music editor’s preference and recommendation is for minimal use the pedal. Tchaikovsky's exceptional gift as a composer apart from writing beautiful melodies and accompaniments is his ability to express a great range of moods from the happiest to the saddest moments probably better than anybody else. 

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