Composer

:

Bohuslav Martinu

Genre

:

Chamber

Style

:

Sonatina

Compose Date

:

1930

Publication Date

:

1931

First Performance

:

1930

Average_duration

:

12:38

Movement_count

:

4

Movement ....

Bohuslav Martinu's Sonatina for 2 violins & piano, H. 198, was composed in 1938 while the composer was living in Paris. The piece was premiered in 1939 by the violinists René Benedetti and André Gertler, with the composer himself at the piano. The Sonatina is comprised of three movements: Moderato, Andante, and Poco allegro. The first movement opens with a lively and rhythmic theme in the piano, which is then taken up by the violins. The music is characterized by its playful and energetic nature, with frequent changes in tempo and dynamics. The second movement is more introspective, with a lyrical melody in the violins accompanied by gentle arpeggios in the piano. The final movement returns to the lively and rhythmic character of the first, with a jaunty theme in the violins and a driving accompaniment in the piano. The Sonatina is notable for its use of polyrhythms and shifting meters, which give the music a sense of unpredictability and excitement. Martinu also employs a wide range of tonal colors, with frequent changes in texture and timbre. The piece is a showcase for the virtuosity of the two violinists, who are often called upon to play in unison or in close harmony. Overall, the Sonatina for 2 violins & piano, H. 198, is a charming and engaging work that showcases Martinu's skill as a composer and his love of rhythmic vitality and tonal color.

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