Sonata in A Major for viola and piano by Cesar Franck
Edited and arranged by Douglas Woodfall-Harris. Published by Barenreiter
Cesar Franck (1822-90) was one of the most influential composers in France at the end of the nineteenth century, as well as a prominent organist and respected teacher. His music is most known for its recurring cyclic themes, deep expression and dramatic harmonies and modulations, the latter an important influence on Debussy. Unusually for a composer of his stature, his reputation rests almost entirely on a handful of late works.
Franck dedicated his Violin Sonata in A Major (1886) to the great virtuoso Eugene Ysaye, who championed the work across his illustrious career. It is an important and deeply treasured work in the core violin repertory; its reputation and singular qualities are such that it is often played by violists and cellists, a rare feat among violin sonatas. This Barenreiter urtext edition is arranged for viola and piano and edited by Douglas Woodfull-Harris. Advanced level, grade 5.
