Composition

1829

Publication

Published in Warsaw (Publisher: Kaufmann) in 1869, and in Mainz (Publisher: Schott) in 1870.

Chopin completed his studies at the Conservatory in 1829. In his graduation report, Professor Elsner described Chopin as possessing "exceptional talent – a musical genius." Furthermore, in July of the same year, Chopin gave two successful concerts in Vienna.

This last Polonaise from his Warsaw period was composed during a time when his reputation was growing abroad. Although the autograph manuscript does not survive, it is presumed to have been included in the album of Chopin's close friend, Tytus.

Compound ternary form. The entire piece is divided into three sections: A (measures 1-58) - B (measures 59-128) - A (measures 1-58), with each section further subdivided into three parts. The tonality of section A is G-sharp major, B-flat major, G-sharp major, and section B is E-flat minor, E major, E-flat minor. Section B features bold modulations using enharmonic equivalents, creating a dramatic effect.