Sonata No. 1
by Richard Lane
Piano Accompaniment - Sheet Music

Viola and piano - Grade 4

SKU: ET.VA10

Composed by Richard Lane. Contemporary. Composed 1979. Duration 11'. Editions BIM #VA10. Published by Editions BIM (ET.VA10).

ISBN 9790207010056.

Richard Lane and I met during basic training in the US Army in 1957. We remained fast friends over the years until his death and I frequently would ask him to write a new piece for viola or viola d’amore. He accommodated me in his most generous fashion and produced quite a few works for both these instruments in different settings. During our army time together, Richard Lane wrote a short Canzona [1957] for violin, viola and piano [Editions Bim - MCX54], possibly the first piece of his that included a prominent viola part.
I later received an appointment at a college in the City University of New York and it was early in my career there that I asked Richard for a Sonata for viola and piano. Hence, came his first of three sonatas for this combination, completed in 1979 and first performed by this writer at my college in 1981.
Richard Lane’s music generally is conservative with strong romantic elements and with a propensity for classical forms. Yet, his music is contemporary with a singular character and sweetness. This Sonata No. 1 is in three movements (fast-slow-fast) and, as in much of Lane’s instrumental music, follows three-part form in many of the individual movements.
This charming and lively sonata, full of much contrast and emotion, reveals the composer’s successful blending of viola and piano and should surely become a staple in the violist’s repertory.
Myron Rosenblum

Letter by Richard Lane to Myron Rosenblum dated May 14th 1981:
Dear Myron,
Just a note to say thanks again for your fine performance of the Viola Sonata yesterday. I was so genuinely pleased with the playing (and the piece) (which composers aren’t supposed to comment (on their own work) :-) - However!!! Thanks for all the many "lifts" you have given to my life and my efforts over the years of our friendship. They are all appreciated.
Sincerely, Dick
Col.[onel] of K[entuck]y.