Taught by renowned violinist
Martin Beaver
Beethoven's first violin sonata, Op. 12 in D major, was composed in 1798 and is one of the composer's earliest works in the sonata genre. Typical of his early period, it's a bright and optimistic work, dedicated to the great Antonio Salieri. For this course, violinist Martin Beaver and pianist Kevin Fitz-Gerald examine its many nuances, technical requirements, and expressive opportunities.
I. Allegro con brio
In this lesson, Martin Beaver and Kevin Fitz-Gerald share their extraordinary lifelong experience with this piece. As they explore Beethoven’s humoristic musical language in this bright and energetic first movement, they discuss how to approach Beethoven’s markings, convey the musical idea, and keep the rhythmic integrity that is fundamental to Beethoven’s music. They guide us through the epic opening, the sudden changes in character and dynamics, and the ways to balance the violin and piano parts.
II. Tema con variazioni: Andante con moto
The second movement is a heartfelt variation movement. After the theme, the variations are structured in a symmetric way with a piano centric variation, violin centric variation and two last variations: in minor and in major. Beaver and Fitz-Gerald explore the improvisation feel of the movement, the expansive nature of the variations and the different ways to create a natural free shape to the music.
III. Rondo: Allegro
In the last movement, Beethoven exhibits his revolutionary musical tendencies. Creating a lively Rondo, Beethoven showcases his unique experimental rhythmic material, as well as his transformative usage of sforzando and accents on weak beats. Beaver and Fitz-Gerald lead us while exploring the virtuosic and conversational structure of the movement, and share technical advice that is fundamental for successfully conveying the fun and humoristic nature of the movement.
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Unlock Course →Mr. Beaver was first violin of the world-renowned Tokyo String Quartet from June 2002 until its final concert in July 2013. As such, he appeared to critical and public acclaim on the major stages of the world, including Carnegie Hall, Wigmore Hall, the Berliner Philharmonie, Suntory Hall in Tokyo, and the Sydney Opera House.
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