Ensemble 360

SCHUMANN Violin Sonata No.1 in A minor Op.105
BRAHMS Horn Trio in E flat Op.40

Schumann’s first two violin sonatas were written in 1851, the same year as his popular Third Symphony, the Rhenish. His clear intent in the A minor sonata was to prioritise the lyricism and expressivity that is characteristic of his chamber pieces from this period. Brahms’ Horn Trio was composed on a summer visit to the Black Forest region in 1865. In this majestic work, and perhaps inspired by his surroundings, Brahms stated a preference for using an old-fashioned Waldhorn (forest horn) for its characteristic mellow, rounded tone.