Count Gallenberg, the lessee of
the famous Karnthnerthor Theatre, was kind to him, and the
publisher Haslinger treated him politely. He had brought with him
his variations on "La ci darem la mano"; altogether the times
seemed propitious and much more so when he was urged to give a
concert. Persuaded to overcome a natural timidity, he made his
Vienna debut at this theatre August 11, 1829, playing on a Stein
piano his Variations, opus 2. His Krakowiak Rondo had been
announced, but the parts were not legible, so instead he
improvised. He had success, being recalled, and his improvisation
on the Polish tune called "Chmiel" and a theme from "La Dame
Blanche" stirred up much enthusiasm in which a grumbling
orchestra joined. The press was favorable, though Chopin's
playing was considered rather light in weight. His style was
admired and voted original--here the critics could see through
the millstone--while a lady remarked "It's a pity his appearance
is so insignificant." This reached the composer's ear and caused
him an evil quarter of an hour for he was morbidly sensitive; but
being, like most Poles, secretive, managed to hide it.
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