Deux nocturnes op. 32

These two nocturnes were composed in 1837, and their first editions were published in Paris (M. Schlesinger, 1837), Berlin (A. M. Schlesinger, 1838), and London (Wessel, 1837).

No. 2 in A-flat Major

In contrast to the exceptional form of No. 1, this nocturne consists of a concise ternary form (A, B, A'). Additionally, it features an introduction leading into A and a coda (the final two measures of the piece) after A', with both the introduction and coda being identical two-measure chorale-like passages. Despite the Lento tempo indication, it is a particularly bright, light, and sentimental work among Chopin's nocturnes.

The theme of section A evokes the atmosphere of a serenade sung at a window at dusk, perhaps accompanied by a guitar or mandolin. Indeed, the accompaniment supporting the simple melody resembles the light strumming of a guitar. The theme is repeated multiple times within section A, and its range and melodic contour strongly resemble an opera aria for a soprano singer.

The theme of the middle section B is derived from the theme of A, but its character is in stark contrast to A. Upon entering B, the key shifts to the parallel minor, F minor, and the time signature changes to 12/8, with both hands playing chords in the same rhythm, in eighth-note units. From measure 35, the texture and motion increase, leading to a passionate climax accompanied by chromatic progressions in the right hand. From measure 39, measures 27-38 are repeated a semitone higher in F-sharp minor; this upward modulation further intensifies the middle section B, reaching ff, and the crescendo continues thereafter.

In A', section A returns almost identically, but the theme reappears at ff under the indication Appassionato, as if carrying over the intensity of the middle section B. Then, the intensity gradually subsides through the undulating quintuplets, including non-harmonic tones, from measure 71, leading towards the coda and a quiet close to the piece.