The nocturne for solo piano emerged in the early 1800's as a “sung” (cantabile) melody played by the right hand together with the left hand strumming or arpeggiating guitar-like accompaniment. Frédéric Chopin added his Parisian sophistication, a hint of his Polish roots, and a wealth of his creative genius to this form, making his nocturne one of the jewels of Romanticism that transformed western culture in the early 19th century. Unlike his contemporaries, Chopin preferred to compose for the intimacy of the parlor room, as opposed to the concert hall, and his mastery of the nocturne best demonstrates how some of the most powerful musical statements can be made with a whisper.

Throughout my career as a pianist and record producer, I have noticed a hunger in my listeners for classical piano music void of the abrupt displays of virtuosity that direct, rather than support, the listener's own inner contemplative journey of thought. This hunger coincided with my own desire to add an album of serious piano music to my catalog of recordings. After extensive research, I chose to interpret ten of Chopin's nocturnes that perfectly meet these needs. I could not resist adding his Berceuse (in French, “lullaby”) and Andante Spianato, as these two beautiful pieces belong on the album in so many ways.

Thanks to my wife Aisha E. Duckworth and to Mano and Brigitta Solinski, without whose tireless encouragement this project would not have happened.

May you find as much enjoyment listening to as I find playing the music of Frédéric Chopin.

-David Duckworth