Béla Bartók

Second Sonata Op. 76

This piece for violin and piano by Béla Bartók was composed in 1922. Its premiere took place in London one year later. Two very contrasting parts characterize this sonata: A slow and expressive movement and a fast one, held in a dance-like rhythm. Because of its high difficulty the 2nd Sonata especially suits professional musicians. This revised edition was prepared by referring to all surviving sources, as follows: (1) Sketch, for violin and piano; (2) Final copy, mostly in a copyist's hand, with additions by the composer; (3) Violin part, copied by the composer; (4) A copy of the first printing, with the composer's marks for the second printing.