Violin Sonata in G Major

A partnership that begins with the piano

The Adagio opens with the piano alone, using broad chords and decorated phrases before the violin joins the conversation. Mozart’s letter about the first performance describes retaining his keyboard part in his head; the Library of Congress discusses that unusual beginning in the work’s manuscript history. For today’s duo, the useful lesson is shared awareness: listen to the partner’s phrase before your own entrance, rather than treating the waiting bars as empty time.

Plan the transitions together

Rehearse the violin’s first entrance from the piano phrase that prepares it. Agree how the sound changes without losing a common pulse. The later Allegro and variation sequence widen that conversation. In a variation, compare who carries the melody with who provides its movement, and allow the balance to change when the roles do.

Music in this edition

1. Violin Sonata in G Major