Composer

:

Sergey Prokofiev

Genre

:

Chamber

Style

:

Sonata

Compose Date

:

1949

Average_duration

:

23:51

Movement_count

:

3

Movement ....

Sergey Prokofiev's Sonata for cello & piano in C major, Op. 119 was composed in 1949, during the last years of the composer's life. It was premiered on March 1, 1950, in Moscow, with the composer himself at the piano and Mstislav Rostropovich on the cello. The sonata is divided into three movements. The first movement, marked Andante grave, begins with a solemn and lyrical cello melody, which is then taken up by the piano. The two instruments engage in a dialogue, with the cello often playing in its lower register, while the piano provides a shimmering accompaniment. The movement ends with a return to the opening theme, played by the cello alone. The second movement, marked Moderato, is more lively and playful. The cello and piano engage in a series of rhythmic and melodic exchanges, with the cello often taking the lead. The movement is characterized by its syncopated rhythms and jazzy harmonies. The final movement, marked Allegro ma non troppo, is the most virtuosic of the three. It begins with a fast and furious cello solo, which is then joined by the piano. The two instruments engage in a frenzied dialogue, with the cello often playing in its highest register. The movement ends with a triumphant coda, in which the two instruments play in unison. The Sonata for cello & piano in C major, Op. 119 is characterized by its lyrical melodies, jazzy harmonies, and virtuosic writing for both instruments. It is considered one of Prokofiev's most important works for cello and piano, and is frequently performed and recorded today.

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