Carl Czerny

Nocturnes

Among the nocturnes in the present edition, five opuses include the word 'Nocturne' in their titles. Such is the case for opus 368, 604 and 647, the seventeen nocturnes recorded by Isabelle Oehmichen (Editions Hortus). These are indisputably 'serious music'. Opus 253 is called 'Le Golfe de Naples, Tableau Nocturne or Fantaisie Pittoresque'. Might it be a nocturne? Undoubtedly. In any case, it has been included in the edition, and is definitely serious music. Opus 537 is a 'Sentimental Nocturne on a theme of Strauss', inspired by Johann Strauss Senior's 'Alexandra' waltz. Though it is not a totally original composition, Czerny's development, far removed from Strauss, calls for it to be considered as a Czerny nocturne. It is interesting to note that this composition, by title, should be part of the brilliant music category. Not serious then? Each person will have to decide for him or herself.