Frédéric Chopin - Waltz Op.64 Nº 3 arranged for classical guitar
The Op. 64 set includes three waltzes: the famous “Minute Waltz” (No. 1), the melancholic No. 2 in C♯ minor (Which I arranged in the key of A minor), and No. 3 in A-flat major (Here rendered in A major). All are refined, and structurally elegant.
No. 3 stands out for its moderato tempo, structural clarity, and a central section in which two melodies gently converse. The mood is balanced and poised. It has neither the virtuosic flair of No. 1 nor the melancholic introspection of No. 2. It does not scream for attention but whispers with elegance.
In short, Op. 64 No. 3 is like a quiet genius at a party full of extroverts. It does not demand attention, but once you notice it, you realize it is one of the most sophisticated voices in the room.
Chopin’s Waltz in A‑flat major (Here rendered in the key of A major), Op. 64 No. 3, stands apart from its more famous companions by offering a different kind of brilliance. Instead of virtuosic display, it draws its charm from rhythmic wit and subtle shifts of accent, creating the impression of a dancer who constantly plays with the beat.
Harmonically, the piece moves with quicksilver agility. Bright, open sonorities alternate with brief chromatic detours, each modulation adding a hint of color without disturbing the waltz’s essential elegance. These turns are fleeting but expressive, giving the music emotional depth beneath its graceful surface.
The central section offers a contrasting lyricism: longer phrases, smoother motion, and a more relaxed melodic line. This moment of calm makes the return of the opening material feel refreshed, as if the dance has regained its sparkle after a brief moment of reflection.
Compact, refined, and full of personality, Op. 64 No. 3 shows Chopin at his most economical and inventive. It’s a waltz that reveals its sophistication through small gestures — rhythmic nudges, harmonic sidesteps, and melodic inflections — all shaped with the effortless grace that defines his late style.
Score: 9 pages
Comments: 4 pages
Below is a link to Youtube which will allow you to get an idea of what this piece sounds like in its original setting for voice and piano. (Performed by Dalia Lazar)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HUqMH9POAb8&list=RDHUqMH9POAb8&start_radio=1
Over the coming months, I will be playing short excerpts from all pieces listed in this catalogue on classical guitar myself and post them on my Youtube channel, titled:
Michael De Baker Arrangements for Classical Guitar.
Thanks for tuning in. Wishing you much musical enjoyment and many rewarding hours with our instrument, the classical guitar.
Michael
Contact. If you’d like to reach out - whether about repertoire, arrangements, or upcoming projects - feel free to email me at mdebakerclassicalguitar@use.startmail.com