Frederic Chopin had not written for any instrument but piano for over a decade. Now in 1846 he returned to the cello. This sonata’s first movement attempts to be in sonata format, but Chopin goes for the kind of looser structure he used in the Polonaise-Fantasie. Adam Neiman believes it is a mistake to force a structure on this movement. As a result, I think it lingers just a bit too long.
Chopin: Sonata for Cello and Piano in G minor, Op. 65 (first movement)
The second movement is a short and lively scherzo, very much to the point.
(second movement)
The third movement is a short slow movement with one of Chopin’s most heartfelt melodies.
(third movement)
The finale is a wonderful rip roarin’ way to sum up the piece.
(fourth movement)
