Composer

:

César Franck

Genre

:

Chamber

Style

:

Chamber Music

Compose Date

:

1842

Publication Date

:

1843

Average_duration

:

18:44

César Franck's Piano Trio No. 4 in B minor, Op. 2, M. 4, was composed in 1879 and premiered on January 28, 1880, at the Société Nationale de Musique in Paris. The trio is divided into three movements: Allegro moderato, Andante espressivo, and Finale: Allegro molto. The first movement, Allegro moderato, begins with a somber and melancholic theme in the cello, which is then taken up by the piano and violin. The music gradually builds in intensity, with the three instruments engaging in a lively dialogue. The second theme is more lyrical and introspective, with the violin taking the lead. The movement ends with a return to the opening theme, which is now transformed into a triumphant and exultant coda. The second movement, Andante espressivo, is a lyrical and introspective interlude. The piano introduces a gentle and melancholic theme, which is then taken up by the violin and cello. The music is characterized by its delicate and nuanced phrasing, as well as its rich and expressive harmonies. The movement ends with a return to the opening theme, which is now transformed into a serene and contemplative coda. The final movement, Finale: Allegro molto, is a lively and energetic romp. The piano introduces a playful and syncopated theme, which is then taken up by the violin and cello. The music is characterized by its virtuosic and exuberant passages, as well as its rhythmic vitality and drive. The second theme is more lyrical and introspective, with the violin taking the lead once again. The movement ends with a return to the opening theme, which is now transformed into a frenzied and exhilarating coda. Overall, Franck's Piano Trio No. 4 is a masterful work that showcases his skill as a composer and his deep understanding of the chamber music genre. The music is characterized by its rich and expressive harmonies, its nuanced and delicate phrasing, and its virtuosic and exuberant passages. It is a testament to Franck's enduring legacy as one of the greatest composers of the Romantic era.

More....