Presents

Emile Ratez

Sonata for Viola and Piano, Op.48

Emile Ratez (1851-1934) was born in the French city Besançon. He studied viola and composition at the Paris Conservatory, the latter with Jules Massenet. He enjoyed a career as a composer and teacher and served as the director of the Lille branch of the Paris Conservatory for several decades. He composed in most genres and chamber music features prominently amongst his oeuvre and includes several piano trios, a string quartet, a string trio and several works for viola.

His Sonata for Viola and Piano dates from 1907. Well-written for the viola as one might expect from a violist, the work opens with an energetic and thrusting Allegro risoluto. The middle movement, Lento, is reflective and calm. The fetching finale, also Allegro risoluto, is more playful and a bit frenetic rather than resolute.

Certainly this is a sonata which violists would do well to add to their recital repertoire. It is sure to be well received by audiences.

Parts: $24.95