Presents
Édouard Lalo
Sonata for Violoncello and Piano in a minor
While the Cello Concerto of Édouard Lalo (1823-1892) is fairly well-known, his Cello Sonata in a minor, composed in 1856 is not. Interestingly, it was dedicated to the famous piano virtuoso Anton Rubinstein. The Sonata begins with a dramatic Andante non troppo with contrasting Allegro interludes which follow. The second movement, Andante ben sostenuto is a calm and gentle affair. The finale, Allegro, is thrusting and powerful.
Lalo was born in Lille and studied at the local conservatory there before entering the Paris Conservatory, where he studied with the well-known French violinist and conductor, François Habeneck. Before he made a name for himself as a composer, for nearly two decades, Lalo made his living working as a violinist, and in particular, performing chamber music. If one considers this, it is perhaps not so surprising that he was able to write such attractive and finished chamber works. In describing Lalo's music, it is clear that he has a gift for writing appealing melodies. His tonal world is that of Schumann and Mendelssohn but modified by uncommonly colorful and exotic harmonies, sometime bizarre rhythms and the use of powerful contrasts in dynamics. Structurally, Lalo was influenced by Beethoven, Mendelssohn and Schumann, most probably because his teacher had helped to popularize their music within France.
The sonata makes a strong impression and will do well in recital. We have reprinted the original 1856 edition, which while perfectly readable, is not as dark as a new edition. The price (a third less than our already normally low prices) reflects this fact.
Parts: $16.95
