Prelude No. 7 is the shortest of the preludes. It is based on a rhythmic motive repeated eight times:

With this rhythmic motive, Chopin creates the two phrases that make the prelude.

The simple harmony is enriched by the constant use of non-harmonic notes in the melody. These notes suggest extensions such as major seventh, ninth and thirteenth. In the case of the dominant chord at the end of both phrases, Chopin emphasizes the use of the ninth as real chord notes:

 

Robert Ståhlbrand, piano. Courtesy of Piano Society


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