Nocturne in E-flat Major by Frederic Chopin, arr. Jacob Arie

“Nocturne in E-flat Major” is the second in a set of three Nocturnes published in 1832. Originally written for solo piano, it is perhaps Chopin’s most recognized work. A graceful, legato melody is supported by the wide and colorful sonorities common in Chopin’s works. While the 12/4 time signature is reminiscent of a waltz style, frequent use of rubato gives the piece a more playful and whimsical character. Over a motor of broken chords, a simple melody is repeated, stretched, and increasingly ornamented throughout the piece.

This arrangement was written for the Keller Central Percussion Ensemble’s showcase concert at the 2023 Percussion Arts Society International Convention at the request of their director – and also my friend and colleague – Matthew Stephens, who had this to say:

“The idea for this arrangement was inspired by one of my daughters’ toys that featured this work among other well-known lullabies. During the height of the Covid-19 pandemic I was at home spending precious time with my then infant daughter and listening to her fall asleep to these lullabies every night. While this Nocturne has always been one of my favorite piano works, it now also evokes pleasant memories of being a new father, and is imbued with the love and pride I feel for my daughter. In this arrangement, the first melodic statement seeks to capture the calmness and stillness of an infant sleeping as a lullaby sweetly plays. With each repeat the orchestration and embellishments of the melody become more fantastical as she drifts off to dreamland.”