[+] Oster, Ernst. "The Fantaisie-Impromptu: A Tribute to Beethoven." In Aspects of Schenkerian Theory, ed. David Beach, 189-207. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1983.
A Schenkerian analysis of Chopin's Fantaisie-Impromptu, Op. 66 (1834) and Beethoven's Piano Sonata Op. 27, No. 2, both in C sharp minor, reveals remarkable similarities between the two. These parallels imply that Chopin's Op. 66 was deeply influenced by Beethoven's Op. 27, No. 2, notably by the coda that ends its finale. These works share: key (the outer movements or sections in C sharp minor, the middle ones in D flat major), main motive, inversion of the motive at the end of a movement or section, literal quotation, and more. These similarities, and data documenting Chopin's fondness of Beethoven's sonata, explain Chopin's refusal to publish his piece. Chopin's study of Beethoven, epitomized in his Op. 66, is a unique case where a genius demonstrates his thorough understanding of another genius.
Works: Chopin: Fantaisie-Impromptu in C sharp Minor, Op. 66.
Sources: Beethoven: Piano Sonata in C sharp Minor, Op. 27, No. 2.
Index Classifications: 1800s
Contributed by: Tamara Balter
