Frédéric Chopin (1810-1849)

SONATA IN G MINOR FOR PIANO AND CELLO, OP. 65

I. Allegro moderato
II. Scherzo. Allegro con brio
III. Largo
IV. Finale. Allegro

By the mid nineteenth century, Frédéric Chopin had achieved musical stardom in Europe. He supported himself primarily by the publication of his own piano compositions and through private teaching. As a performer, Chopin preferred the intimacy of his own apartment and a circle of friends to the bright lights of the concert stage. Historians count the number of public performances given by Chopin during his life at 30. There were no symphonies or grand oratorios or operas. Chopin composed primarily for the piano alone. However, he did have a particular affection for the cello, returning to the instrument at various stages in his career. The Sonata in G minor, Op. 65 is Chopin’s final work of significance. In it, we hear the final lyrical verses penned by the “Poet of the Piano.”

WWCMF acknowledges the generous support of the Walla Walla Piano Group in providing the Steinway Model B piano for this performance. Bravo, and thank you!

Artists: Henry Kramer, piano; and Meta Weiss, cello