Taught by renowned violinist
Martin Beaver
For this course, violinist Martin Beaver and pianist Kevin Fitz-Gerald, examine nuances, technical requirements, and expressive opportunities of the sonata.
I. Allegro con brio
In this lesson, Martin Beaver and Kevin Fitz-Gerald share their extraordinary lifelong experience with this piece. As they explore Beethoven's use of contrasting themes and sudden shifts in dynamics that add a sense of tension and urgency throughout the movement, they discuss how to approach Beethoven’s markings, convey the musical idea and technical challenges. They guide us through the mysterious opening, the sudden changes in character and dynamics, and the ways to balance the violin and piano parts.
II. Adagio cantabile
The second movement, marked Adagio cantabile, provides a stark contrast to the vigor of the first. It is a lyrical and expressive movement with a beautiful, singing quality. The violin takes on a more prominent role, delivering poignant melodies, while the piano provides a sensitive and supportive backdrop. Beaver and Fitz-Gerald explore ways of expression through the means of vibrato, articulation, dynamics and nuanced bow strokes to achieve a fine balance between continuous narrative and supportive dialogue.
III. Scherzo: Allegro
The third movement, a Scherzo marked Allegro, injects a playful and dance-like character into the sonata. It features rapid rhythmic patterns and lively thematic material. The interaction between the violin and piano is characterized by a sense of lightness and agility. This movement adds a delightful contrast to the more serious movements of the sonata, contributing to the overall balance of the composition. Follow along when Beaver and Fitz-Gerald dive into the exploration of nuanced articulation and clean technical execution to achieve this stark contrast of tone, compared to the other movements of this sonata.
IV. Finale: Allegro; Presto
The fourth movement is marked by its dramatic tone and virtuosic demands on both instruments, showcasing Beethoven's mastery of counterpoint and exploration of the dynamic limits of the instruments . Beaver and Fitz-Gerald lead us to the vigorous finale, which concludes Beethoven's Sonata No. 7
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Unlock Course →Mr. Beaver was first violin of the world-renowned Tokyo String Quartet from June 2002 until its final concert in July 2013. As such, he appeared to critical and public acclaim on the major stages of the world, including Carnegie Hall, Wigmore Hall, the Berliner Philharmonie, Suntory Hall in Tokyo, and the Sydney Opera House.
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