The NATIONAL EDITION is the first source-critical edition of Chopin`s complete works based on the entire body of available sources. The objective of the National Edition is to present Chopin`s output in its authentic form. Three basic characteristics distinguish the National Edition from other edition`s of Chopin`s works. It is:
- a source edition based on sources originated from the composer, ma
inly autographs, copies of autographs and first editions with the composer`s corrections, and pupils` copies with Chopin`s annotations. In cases when original sources were lacking, the closest possible materials were used. The collection of source materials was a very laborious task, which took years of effort. The editors have now at their disposal originals or photocopies of practically all-possible source materials.
- a critical edition. The sources have been thoroughly analysed to verify their authenticity and examine their relations. Only an extensive analysis of the variety of materials, not just reconstruction of one or a few sources, can uncover the composer`s musical intentions. The characteristics of sources, the links and discrepancies between them as well as the reasons for particular editorial decisions have been discussed in the Source Commentaries.
- a practical edition. Beside Chopin`s fi*****ng, it includes, in different typeface, the fi*****ng used in contemporary concert practice. The Performance Commentaries explain the elements of the score that might be unclear to a contemporary performer. The Performance Commentary appended to each volume includes: the realisation of ornaments, comments on pedal markings (the original markings sometimes are inadequate, due to the difference in sound between pianos used in Chopin`s times and modern pianos), suggestions as to the "harmonic legato" (a performance technique often used by Chopin and now forgotten). National Edition by Jan Ekier is recommended for the entrants in the rulebook of the International Fryderyk Chopin Piano Competition in Warsaw.
