SA musicians tackle Beethoven’s Kreutzer Sonata

The sonata will be performed by violinist Waldo Alexander and concert pianist Jill Richards to pay homage to the German composer ahead of his 250th birthday celebrations next year.

The performance will feature a combination of Beethoven’s sonatas, with Violin Sonata No 9, opus 47, taking centre stage.

Sonata No 9 was dedicated to George Bridgetower, with whom Beethoven fell out over a woman. Beethoven then backtracked on the sonata's title and dedicated it to Rodolphe Kreutzer who was regarded as one of the best violinists at the time. However, Kreutzer hated the piece and never played it.

"Next year is the 250th anniversary of the birth of Beethoven, so this is a treat for curious ears and music fans to attend an intimate and sincere classical event," Alexander, who has 30 years of classical experience, said.

Richards said the Melville performance would be a new experience for the two musicians in terms of the compositions they have chosen to play. The duo typically specialises in modern classical music and has recorded works by Kevin Volans for piano, violin and viola.

Alexander says preparations for the event were not without challenges. “Mastering the Kreutzer required immense physical fitness. It took a lot of great physical and mental stamina but we hope all the effort pays off."

The duo wants to ignite curiosity for classical music in South Africa and hopes to take the Kreutzer performance to other South African cities in 2020.

"We also look forward to socialising and talking to the audience members after the performance," Richards said.

The event starts at 3pm and tickets are available on Quicket at R120 per person.