Review of Lennox Berkeley’s Viola Sonata in D minor, Op. 22
Lennox Berkeley’s Sonata for Viola and Piano, composed in 1945-46, is a remarkable addition to the viola repertoire. Today, I had the pleasure of playing this sonata with pianist Lauretta Bloomer in her charming home in Sliedrecht. The sonata is a perfect piece for advanced conservatory students, offering challenges in both technical execution and emotional expression.
The first movement, marked Allegro ma non troppo, is striking in its balance of vigor and lyrical depth. The marking non troppo seems to influence the character rather than tempo, especially when thinking of the piece in one. A sudden Tranquillo passage comes as a delightful surprise, highlighting Berkeley’s sensitivity to character shifts. The character indications throughout this movement make it especially rewarding for performers who enjoy exploring tonal colors and moods. Notably, this movement is significantly longer than the other two, giving it a weighty presence.
The second movement, Adagio, is hauntingly beautiful, with long, expansive phrases that demand careful attention to phrasing and color. The sharp rhythms of the 32nd notes at the end of the long notes are crucial to capturing the movement’s solemn, almost funereal atmosphere. There’s a sense of deep introspection here—a challenge lies in broadening the phrases to maintain their meditative quality without losing the tension beneath.
The third movement, Allegro, shifts to a lively and buoyant character. Its folk-inspired dance feeling, driven by the interplay between 6/8 and 4/8 time signatures, makes it particularly enjoyable to perform. This finale has an infectious energy that brings the sonata to a satisfying conclusion. The rhythmic intricacies and vibrant spirit make it a true celebration of the viola’s versatility.
The sonata has a total duration of approximately 17 minutes, making it a perfect piece for the first half of a recital. Berkeley’s writing is idiomatic for both instruments, with the piano and viola engaging in an elegant partnership throughout. It’s a work that demands not only technical skill but also a nuanced understanding of tone and character, rewarding performers who bring a wide palette of emotions to the table.
In summary, Berkeley’s Viola Sonata is a compelling and emotionally rich work. Whether as a recital centerpiece or part of a program, it offers both performers and audiences a meaningful and colorful musical journey.
7th of January 2025