Chopin: "Heroic" Polonaise No. 6 in A-flat major, Op. 53 | Lang Lang (piano)

Frédéric Chopin’s Polonaise No. 6 in A-flat major, Op. 53, commonly known as the "Heroic" Polonaise, is one of the most powerful and recognizable works in the Romantic piano repertoire. In this video, it's performed by virtuoso pianist Lang Lang during a 2010 concert at Vienna's Musikverein. The piece was presented as one of several encores that evening.

Frédéric Chopin (1810-1849) published the piece in 1843 at a time when his health remained fragile and Poland was under foreign domination; yet, the aptly nicknamed "Heroic" Polonaise is nonetheless bursting with confidence and strength. Its brilliant opening, commanding main theme and passages of energetic repeated left-hand octaves give it a sense of determination and drive that earned it the nickname "Heroic" — Chopin himself reportedly loathed such programmatic titles. The work's nickname was reportedly given by Chopin's partner, George Sand, who was so taken with the piece's vigor, she wrote in a letter to Chopin that such spirit belonged in the French Revolution.

Originally a stately Polish processional dance, the polonaise became an important symbol of Polish national identity. For Chopin, who spent much of his adult life away from Poland in the salons of Paris, the form offered a means to connect with his homeland. Chopin, wrote 23 polonaises in his lifetime, expanding the possibilities of both the polonaise and the piano along the way.

As with many of Chopin's pieces, the work demands serious technical ability and is best performed by a seasoned pianist able to combine power with control and clarity. In this video, we see a stirring rendition by expressive virtuoso Lang Lang, who has had a close relationship with Chopin’s music since his youth.

Author: Sarah Hucal
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