Composer

:

César Franck

Genre

:

Chamber

Style

:

Chamber Music

Compose Date

:

1841

Publication Date

:

1843

Average_duration

:

24:34

Movement_count

:

4

Movement ....

César Franck's Piano Trio No. 2 in B flat major, Op. 1/2, M. 2 was composed in 1879 and premiered on January 28, 1880, at the Société Nationale de Musique in Paris. The piece is divided into four movements and is considered one of Franck's most significant chamber works. The first movement, marked Allegro moderato, begins with a lyrical and expressive melody in the cello, which is then taken up by the violin and piano. The music builds in intensity, with the piano providing a driving accompaniment to the soaring melodies of the strings. The movement features Franck's signature use of cyclic form, with themes from the first movement reappearing throughout the piece. The second movement, marked Scherzo: Vivace, is a lively and playful dance in 6/8 time. The piano introduces the main theme, which is then taken up by the strings. The trio section features a more lyrical melody, with the cello taking the lead. The third movement, marked Adagio, is the emotional heart of the piece. It begins with a hauntingly beautiful melody in the violin, accompanied by the piano. The cello then takes up the melody, and the music builds to a powerful climax before subsiding into a quiet and introspective coda. The final movement, marked Allegro molto, is a lively and energetic dance in 2/4 time. The piano introduces the main theme, which is then taken up by the strings. The music builds to a frenzied climax before subsiding into a quiet coda, with the themes from the first movement returning in a triumphant conclusion. Overall, Franck's Piano Trio No. 2 is characterized by its lush harmonies, soaring melodies, and masterful use of cyclic form. It is considered one of the most significant works in the chamber music repertoire and a testament to Franck's skill as a composer.

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