Composer

:

Max Reger

Genre

:

Chamber

Style

:

Sonata

Compose Date

:

Jul 1892

Publication Date

:

1893

First Performance

:

Oct 17, 1893

Average_duration

:

26:25

Movement_count

:

3

Movement ....

Max Reger's Sonata for cello & piano No. 1 in F minor, Op. 5 was composed in 1894 when the composer was only 21 years old. The piece premiered on December 15, 1894, in Munich, with Reger himself playing the piano and Friedrich Grützmacher playing the cello. The sonata is divided into four movements. The first movement, marked Allegro agitato, is characterized by its restless energy and dramatic contrasts between the cello and piano. The second movement, marked Largo con gran espressione, is a lyrical and expressive adagio that showcases the cello's singing qualities. The third movement, marked Scherzo: Molto vivace, is a playful and virtuosic scherzo that features rapid runs and arpeggios in both instruments. The final movement, marked Allegro molto e passionato, is a fiery and intense finale that brings the sonata to a thrilling conclusion. Reger's Sonata for cello & piano No. 1 is notable for its complex harmonies and dense textures, which reflect the composer's interest in the music of J.S. Bach and his own contrapuntal studies. The piece also demonstrates Reger's skill in writing for both instruments, with the cello and piano often engaging in intricate dialogues and exchanges of melody and accompaniment. Overall, Reger's Sonata for cello & piano No. 1 is a challenging and rewarding work for both performers and listeners, showcasing the composer's early mastery of form, harmony, and instrumental technique.

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