Final thoughts? Interpretation of the first movements of Beethoven's and Schubert's last three piano sonatas
Citation:
Marie-Charline Foccroulle, 'Final thoughts? Interpretation of the first movements of Beethoven's and Schubert's last three piano sonatas'Download Item:
Abstract:
Considered as the apex of the literature for piano sonatas in the classical period,
Beethoven’s last three piano sonatas, Opp. 109, 110, 111, and Schubert’s last three
piano sonatas, D. 958, 959, and 960, are still well appreciated by pianists and are
often played in concert. Much has been written about these pieces but this thesis
examines the interpretation of the first movements of these works, by highlighting
their particularities, explaining the impact of these on the interpretation, and,
therefore, helping the understanding of the music for the performing process.
These six first movements contain fascinating and striking particularities, typical to
each composer’s style, which strongly influence their interpretation. The thesis
identifies the techniques that are responsible for these particularities in the music. It
demonstrates why Beethoven’s three first movements are concise, driven by an inner
energy, always moving forward, and it examines the purpose of the length in
Schubert’s three first movements. This research also shows that all six first
movements possess elements of unity and coherence, and that these are reached
through very different means, depending on whether it is a movement by Beethoven
or by Schubert.
It is a special and tremendous experience to perform these sonatas. It is the role of
the pianist in his/her interpretation of these movements to underline and point out
their particularities, as these represent the essence and hallmarks of Beethoven’s and
Schubert’s musical discourse. This thesis gives answers inasmuch as it explains what
performers have to be aware of, what they have to emphasise in their interpretation,
and why they have to emphasise it. Thereafter, it is easier to give an eloquent interpretation of these movements, where their particularities are then clearly
understandable.
Author: Foccroulle, Marie-Charline
Advisor:
Neary, DeniseType of material:
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