Before you play a single note, listen to a professional recording of the original Chopin piece (YouTube is your friend). Listen for the "singing" tone. Your version may have fewer notes, but you must mimic that cantabile (singing) style.

For many aspiring pianists, the name Frédéric Chopin evokes a mixture of awe and intimidation. We picture lightning-fast fingers flying over black keys, haunting nocturnes that require a deep emotional touch, and complex polyrhythms that tie even advanced players in knots. It is easy to assume that Chopin’s music is a mountain reserved only for conservatory students and concert virtuosos.