BRAHMS, Johannes

Sonata for viola and piano in E flat major op. 120 no. 2

III. Andante con moto

Hartmut Höll, guest profesor

Ewelina Bielarczyk, viola

Madarys Morgan Verdecia, piano

Professor Höll explains aspects such as dynamics, phrasing and articulation. Referring to balance and interpenetration between the two instruments, the viola should be softer and all the diminuendi start earlier. On the contrary, the piano must open the sound and make it look easy, as singing. Höll comments that what we feel is very important, the technique, in every moment.
In the piano part, the articulation needs more support and then releases, as natural as possible. In long phrases, the left hand has to be heard.
He mentiones other aspects in the viola part: legato espressivo, relaxation and 'calando'.
Finally, the piano should use the space as floating, suspended, and connecting all the parts. 

Language: English