Violin Sonata No. 9 (Beethoven)

Violin Sonata No. 9 in A major, commonly known as the Kreutzer Sonata is a violin sonata Ludwig van Beethoven published in 1802 as his opus 47. It is known for its demanding violin part, unusual length (a typical performance lasts slightly less than 40 minutes), and emotional scope — while the first movement is predominantly furious, the second is meditative and the third joyous and exuberant.

Related Topics:
Violin sonata - Ludwig van Beethoven

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The sonata was originally dedicated to the half-Polish half-West Indian violinist George Bridgetower (1779–1860) who performed with Beethoven at the premiere. However, after the performance, while the two were drinking, Bridgetower insulted the morals of a woman who turned out to be Beethoven's friend. Enraged, Beethoven removed the dedication of the piece, dedicating the piece instead to Rudolphe Kreutzer, considered the finest violinist of the day. Ironically, Kreutzer never performed it, and considered it unplayable, even though his name is now forever attached to it.

Related Topics:
George Bridgetower - Rudolphe Kreutzer

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