THE BEETHOVEN SONATAS FOR PIANO AND VIOLIN

Abstract

The preparation of three D.M.A. Performance Option recitals has afforded me the exciting opportunity to study and perform the Ten Sonatas for Piano and Violin by Ludwig van Beethoven. Sonatas for piano and violin are inherently interesting to me because of the contrast between the two very different instruments, and these varied works by Beethoven have always been favorites of mine. These ten sonatas in particular are considered to form the centerpiece of the violin/piano sonata repertoire, and their study serves as an important milestone for both the pianist and the violinist alike:

1) Sonata in D major no. 1, op. 12 no. 1

2) Sonata in A major no. 2, op. 12 no. 2

3) Sonata in E flat major no. 3 op. 12 no. 3

4) Sonata in A minor no. 4, op. 23

5) Sonata in F major no. 5, op. 24 "Spring"

6) Sonata in A major no. 6, op. 30 no. 1

7) Sonata in C minor no. 7, op. 30 no. 2

8) Sonata in G major no. 8, op. 30 no. 3

9) Sonata in A major no. 9, op. 47 "Kreutzer"

10) Sonata in G major no. 10, op. 96

After careful consideration, I propose to perform the ten sonatas grouped into three recitals as follows.

First program: Nos. 1, 2, 4, and 5 Second program: Nos. 6, 7, and 10. Third program: Nos. 3, 8, and 9.

In deciding how to combine the sonatas into three balanced and effective programs, I have considered not only the chronology of the works, but also their keys, durations, and notable compositional characteristics.