It began as a wedding present, but would prove to be a gift to the music world that keeps on giving. The Franck Sonata, as it is known, defies categorization. Yes, it is 100% and inalienably a piece for violin and piano. Let’s be clear about that from the get-go. But there is something so universal in its DNA that every instrument wants a crack at it. The number of arrangements is staggering. There are versions for:
flute, cello, viola, double bass, oboe, clarinet, alto saxophone, tuba, violin and string orchestra, violin and full orchestra, two pianos and believe it or not, choir and organ. Of those myriad incarnations, the only extra version sanctioned by the composer is the one for cello and piano.
About that wedding. Franck composed the work for the young virtuoso Eugène Ysaÿe and his bride Louise Bourdeau de Courtrai. Ysaÿe played the sonata that very day for his guests. He would give the public premiere of the work a couple of months later, and it has taken on a life of its own ever since.
César Fanck (1822-1890)
Sonata for Violin and Piano in A Major (1868)
I. Allegretto ben moderato
II. Allegro (D minor)
III. Recitativo-Fantasia. Ben moderato — Molto lento
IV. Allegretto poco mosso
Artists: Winston Choi, piano; Maria Sampen, violin