Performance - Presto & Largo from Violin Sonata by J.S Bach
Nollaig C.V. Walsh |
TEDxWoosongUniversity
• April 2021
Although written around 1720, the Presto and Largo are a staple in the repertoire of any classical violinist due to their beauty, difficulty and interpretive potential.
The Presto, Italian for 'quickly,' is an incessant barrage of scales and arpeggios more reminiscent of organ music from start to finish. However, within this hailstorm of notes from a violinist's flying fingers, the waves of changing rhythms and harmonies takes the listener on a unique sonic ride.
The Largo, Italian for 'slowly,' is a sumptuous melodic journey through an array of reflective moods and emotions. The violinist accompanies himself by playing two, three, and four notes simultaneously to add harmonic depth to the melody. An atmosphere of vulnerability and humility leaves the listener in a quiet and contemplative state.