September Sonata

I. Moderato (4:30)  II. Adagio (4:00)  III. Scherzo (2:30)  IV. Allegro con brio (4:30)

September Sonata is a challenging work in four movements that is straightforward rhythmically but technically demanding. The first movement features regular use of altissimo and rapid technical passages. The second movement, an homage to Jerome Kern, is a very rubato adagio needing a “delicacy and warm tone throughout,” as the composer notes on the score. The third is a relatively traditional scherzo with no altissimo. The fourth features regular use of altissimo and is quick with the exception of a short slow passage approximately one-third of the way in, and the intensity builds greatly to the end. The piano part is also challenging. 

- James Houlik