Violin Sonata No. 21 in E minor

Two players, one opening line

The Allegro begins with violin and piano sharing the same melody in octaves. Agree on the character of that line before treating it as a solo with accompaniment. When the piano adds harmony beneath the returning melody, listen for what has changed rather than simply repeating the opening gesture.

Shape the phrase together

Violinist and teacher Joel Lester uses harmonic direction to shape the recurring opening theme. Try rehearsing its first eight bars without stopping automatically every two bars. The players can then agree where the phrase gathers energy and where it settles. In the Tempo di Menuetto, notice that the piano begins alone: let its quiet opening establish the pace and colour that the violin later joins.

Music in this edition

1. I. Allegro
2. II. Tempo di Menuetto