Despite musical ideas so revolutionary that they virtually defined modem pianism, Frederic Chopin––for nearly a century after his death––was regarded by most observers as little more than a popular salon pianist. However, in recent years scholars have begun to re-evaluate his work and it is now clear that he was one of the boldest innovators of the 19th century, exerting a profound influence on nearly every Romantic composer who followed him. By selectively analyzing and performing  many of the composer's most significant piano works, Dr. Siek examines Chopin's most revolutionary contributions, with special attention paid to his 24 Etudes. 

(This course presumes no special familiarity with musical concepts.)