Cello Sonata (Shostakovich)
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Cello Sonata | |
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by Dmitri Shostakovich | |
Key | D minor |
Opus | 40 |
Composed | 1934 |
Dedication | Viktor Kubatsky |
Performed | 25 December 1934 |
Published | 1951 |
Movements | 4 |
The Cello Sonata in
Movements
I – Allegro non troppo
The sonata form first movement contrasts a broad first theme in the cello, accompanied by flowing piano arpeggios, developed by the piano until reaching a climax. The second theme is first played by the piano, then followed by the cello. In the development a rhythmic motif goes through the flowing textures of the first theme. The recapitulation appears with the second theme rather than the first. Shostakovich repeats the first theme where all moves in slow motion, with staccato chords in the piano and sustained notes in the cello.
II – Allegro
The moto perpetuo outer sections of the second movement frame a minuet-like trio.
III – Largo
The movement begins with the solo cello, which is later joined by the piano. The manuscript indicates the cello is to play con sordino.
IV – Allegro
The finale's rondo theme appears five times, imitated by both instruments, interspersed by episodes of scalar runs. In the second of these, the piano unfurls a brief cadenza. The theme returns, to round off the movement.