Sonata in E-flat, Op. 18 Cover Image

Sonata in E-flat, Op. 18: Violin, Solo with Piano, Solo and Piano

$18.95 USD
$18.95 USD
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Sonata in E-flat, Op. 18 Cover Image
Sonata in E-flat, Op. 18: Violin, Solo with Piano, Solo and Piano

Sonata in E-flat, Op. 18: Violin, Solo with Piano, Solo and Piano

By Richard Strauss

Item: 36-M254091
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One of the great hits of virtuosic violin repertoire, Strauss' VIOLIN SONATA is a lush and impressive piece. Composed when Strauss was only 23, it demonstrates the brilliance and mastery of the composer. Challenging yet highly rewarding for both violinist and piano accompanist, this beautiful work is sure to inspire the audience.

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Additional Details
Series: Master String Series
Publisher: Keiser Productions, Inc.
ISBN10: 1-68-296030-7
ISBN13: 978-1-68-296030-1
UPC: 746241261045
SKU: 36-M254091
Instrumentation: Violin and Piano

More about this title

About the Composer: Richard Strauss

Richard Strauss (1864, 1949) shaped the late Romantic orchestra and expanded the technical language of every instrument he wrote for. His early years in Munich and Berlin exposed him to both Wagner's harmonic innovation and the virtuosic traditions of the concert hall, and he synthesized both into a personal voice that demanded absolute mastery from performers. By his mid-twenties, Strauss had already composed tone poems and concertos that redefined what was possible on their respective instruments.

As a teacher, conductor, and composer, Strauss was obsessed with the craft of writing. His violin sonata emerges from this obsession: it's a work that respects the instrument's capabilities while pushing them into new territory. His orchestral and operatic output overshadows his chamber music in popularity, but the violin sonata remains one of the finest examples of late-Romantic virtuosity and lyricism combined.

Why we love this

Strauss refused to write empty display writing, and this sonata proves it. The passagework glitters and demands precision, but underneath is genuine melodic substance and harmonic sophistication that keeps audiences engaged long after the fireworks fade. For advanced duos seeking a work that challenges both players equally and delivers a stunning recital closer, this belongs in your rotation.

What to expect

Lush and unabashedly romantic, with moments of pure brilliance that light up the hall. The writing balances introspection with virtuosic swagger, moving between tender phrasing and passages that sparkle with confidence. Strauss keeps you listening with unexpected harmonic turns and a keen understanding of what makes the violin sing.

Who it's for

Advanced high school violinists and college music majors looking for substantial recital material. The pianist needs equal technical and musical maturity; this isn't a solo with piano accompaniment but a true collaborative work.

How to get the most out of it

  • Balance the lyrical moments against the virtuosic sections; clarity doesn't mean speed, and Strauss's themes deserve space to breathe even when surrounded by figuration.
  • Mark the harmonic progressions in both parts before rehearsal so the pianist can support the violin's phrasing without rushing ahead.
  • Test your intonation carefully in the higher positions; Strauss frequently sits on exposed sustained tones that will sound thin or sharp if the setup isn't secure.
  • Give weight to the cadenza-like passages by listening to multiple recordings and finding the rubato that feels natural to your partnership, not imposed by the score.

How to use it

Perfect as the centerpiece of an advanced chamber recital or as a solo festival entry for strong high school or college students. It pairs well with shorter works, a Bach sonata for contrast, or a contemporary piece that explores similar technical terrain. The sonata's roughly 30-minute duration makes it substantial enough to anchor a program but not so long that it overshadows other repertoire.

Skills your students will build

  • Double stop intonation and execution
  • Passagework velocity and clarity in higher positions
  • Rubato and phrasing in lyrical Romantic melody
  • Collaborative listening and balance with piano
  • Stamina across an extended form with technical demands throughout

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