Prokofiev flute sonataRussian composer, Sergei Prokofiev (1891-1953) began his Sonata for Flute and Piano in D Major, Opus 94 in 1942.
The Prokofiev flute sonata was premiered on December 7, 1943, in Moscow, during the depths of World War II. He composed it in between writing his ballets, War and Peace and Cinderella. Usually flutists borrow repertoire from the much more massive violinist's library, but in this case the situation was reversed. At the request of violin virtuoso, David Oistrakh, Prokofiev arranged the sonata for the violin and it is played frequently on that instrument. The piece had to be smuggled out of the Soviet Union for Western musicians to enjoy this magnificent work. In 1944, it was premiered Boston. The sonata is written in four movements. Playing time is just under 25 minutes.
Since the debut of this commanding piece, the sonata has been a standard in the flutist's repertoire. A myriad of emotions span the piece, commanding and strong, lyrical and sad. The sonata challenges the flutist technically and expressively. Mature, heartfelt playing is a must! Purchase the sheet music...
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Flutist Fenwick Smith plays the flute sonata here with pianist, Olga Kiun, at the Teatro SESC in Curitiba, Brazil.
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