Obscure Music Mondays: Glinka's Viola Sonata
Mikhail Glinka (June 1, 1804 - Feb. 15, 1857) has often been called the father of Russian classical music; his works were strong influences on Mussorgsky, Borodin, and Rimsky-Korsakov, just to name a few. HIs output as a composer was considerable; he wrote operas, symphonic works, chamber pieces, and more. Today we are looking at his Viola Sonata, a work that is often forgotten about among his large number of works.
Glinka started work on this sonata in 1825, but it was never finished. He began to sketch out a fourth movement, but nothing came of it, and all we have of the work is two movements (allegro moderato and Larghetto ma non troppo), with the second actually two movements in one.
Stormy and dark, this sonata is highly romantic, and both piano and viola parts are demanding (Glinka played both instruments). The viola sometimes bears the brunt of many musical jokes, but there's no joking with this piece; from the technical demands to its incredible lyricism, the viola is a force to be reckoned with in this sonata. This dynamic, intense work is a fantastic addition to the viola repertoire, and a wonderful display of the viola as a solo instrument!
Here are some recordings for you to enjoy!