Concert 4 - Contrasts

L. van Beethoven: Piano Quartet in E-flat Major, Op. 16

B. Bartok: “Contrasts”

F. Poulenc: Sonata for Clarinet and Piano (arr. Accordion)

Beethoven’s Op. 16 was originally inspired by Mozart’s Piano and Wind Quintet, K442 and appears in a version with the same forces and indeed key. Simultaneously however Beethoven produced the version we hear this afternoon, modified for piano and strings. This contrast in wind compared to strings is exploited to the full by Bartok in his piece, hence its title. Benny Goodman commissioned the Bartok work; the Poulenc sonata was also commissioned by him. He intended to perform the premier with the composer but Poulenc died just before the performance.