《Tambourin, Violin Sonata in C Major, Op.5, No.10》

Jean-Marie Leclair (1697-1764)

Jean-Marie Leclair (1697-1764) was an illustrious violinist and composer in 18th century France. In addition to operas, many of Leclair's concertos, sonatas, duets and trios are still popular today. Leclair's music is unique as it blends the majestic opulence of Italian music with French forms. The alluring contour of his melodies reflects the distinct qualities in music he sought to pursue. His expressive style was far beyond the expectations French audiences had at the time, hence his works could almost be described as "works of virtuosity." Moreover, he had a profound influence on the music history of the violin; his sonatas show qualities typical of Corelli's sonatas, hence he was often categorized as a "violin composer" by posterity. Leclair composed a total of 49 violin sonatas. The piece Tambourin is an arrangement by Austrian violinist Fritz Kreisler (1875-1962) based on the fourth movement of Leclair's Violin Sonata in D major, Op. 9, No. 3. The piece displays the refined structure of the ternary ABA form. In the A section, the piano accompaniment in the lower register continues in a stable, continuous rhythm, while the violin melody dances intricately within the duple meter. The rapid sixteenth-notes, together with the wide octave leaps that accentuate the sprightly rhythm, lure the audience into a delightful dance. The B section modulates to C minor and long, held notes in the bass of the piano accompaniment replace the previously repetitious, percussive rhythm. The effusive quality of the violin melody shifts to a lyrical, introspective singing style in the B section, forming a sharp contrast to the lively, vivacious atmosphere of the two A sections. The violin used in this recording was made by French luthier François Louis Pique (1758-1822) in 1802.