Sonatina for Tuba and Piano, Op. 75 - František Domažlický

12. říjen 2011

The compositional output of the violist and composer František Domažlický (1913 to 1997), a native of Prague, consists – apart from several song cycles – mainly of instrumental music genres. Domažlický belongs to the few Czech authors who wrote more than one piece for solo tuba, an instrument that became regularly used as a solo instrument only in the second half of the twentieth century. In 1983 Domažlický wrote two pieces – both under the same opus number 53 – namely, Concerto for tuba and strings that was followed by Duetto for two contrabass tubas. In 1990s Domažlický added two more: Sonatina for tuba and piano, op. 75 (1991), and Scherzo for tuba and piano, op. 77 (1992).

In Sonatina for tuba and piano, op. 75 Domažlický applies elements of extended tonality. The solo instrument is presented as a technically equipped melodic instrument capable of lyrical cantilena that is not only accompanied harmonically by the piano, but the two instruments become partners in terms of melodic development. A characteristic feature of the Sonatina lies in the sequential development of the melodic line. The first movement starts with a compelling main theme that is followed by a waltz stylization. The contrasting second movement brings about a change of mood in music of harmonic richness. In this part the piano is granted more space and also the tuba can prove its potential as a distinctive melodic instrument. The third movement catches the listener’s attention with a combination of succinct rhythm and legato passages in both instruments. The solo instrument part is written in a higher tuba register so that it is advisable to use contrabass tubas in F or in E flat to perform the piece.

Other compositions by František Domažlický published in Czech Radio:
Concertino per cornamusa in Es ed orchestra, Op. 76
Concerto for Tuba and Strings, Op. 53
Concerto for Tuba and Strings, Op. 53 / piano score
Czech Songs for Three Female Voices, or Female or Children's Choir, and String Quartet, Op. 17
Scherzo for Tuba and Piano
Sonata per trombone e pianoforte, Op. 58

instrumentationtb, pftedescriptionscore, partpubl.No.R 233price165,- CZK

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