Byron Adams(1955)

Byron Adams is an American composer, conductor, and musicologist.

«I wrote my Sonata for viola and piano during a difficult phase in my life», writes Byron Adams. «The dramatic first movement (Allegro appassionato) is a variant of the sonata form, with a new theme... announcing the beginning of the formal development. The second movement (Allegretto grazioso, ma un poco malinconico) is a Siciliano. The dark third movement (Adagio molto e mesto) is a funeral procession, with the viola playing a lament (E-flat minor) - the piano part contains eight note triplets almost throughout - The last movement (Allegro risoluto)... contains variations of themes from prior movements. The music pushes relentlessly, up to a last, abrupt and condescending cadenca» (B.Adams in the preface). Convincing and thrilling music, respecting the viola's nature.