Composed in 1886, when Franck was already in his sixties, this is a magnificent, mature work from the romantic era.
Presented as a wedding gift to the violinist Eugène-Auguste Ysaÿe, This sonata goes way beyond a simple wedding gift. It has a special place as a permanent member of the violin repertoire now.
There are few pieces like the Franck Violin Sonata. It is universally loved being such a beautiful romantic work.
Click on the link below to learn more.
César Franck – Sonata in A Major for Violin and Piano (Analysis)
Beethoven Spring Sonata
Originally published in 1801, Sonata in F Major is often known as Beethoven’s “Spring” Sonata for piano and violin. This piece is a good example of Beethoven’s transitional role between the Classical and Romantic eras.
The title “Spring” was not given by Beethoven but the name has stuck and the mood of the piece is not a contradiction. The first movement is a cheery pastoral flowing tune. The simple tune of the second movement with contrapuntal conversations between the instruments makes for a sublime experience. A typical scherzo, the third movement is humorous and light. The sonata ends with a majestic proud theme.
The Spring sonata is a treasure you will not want to miss!
Some Recent Recordings
Program Details: Performed at Kirkland Village on June 20, 2025
This is an excerpt from the first movement
Here’s a recording of the beautiful second movement
The third movement (scherzo) of the Spring Sonata
The last (4th) movement of the Spring Sonata
César Frank violin sonata in A major
The first movement
The exciting toccata second movement
Here’s the third movement of the Frank from the same concert.
The exciting conclusion of the Frank (4th movement) A lovely rondo.
The Musicians
Stefan Xiori
Stefan started studying violin when he was 6. Formal music training continued then at the Professional High School of Music. Once graduating, Stefan went to the National Conservatory of Music in Tirana, Albania. His talent was obvious as he became a soloist and concert master with the orchestra.
Since moving to the US in 1993, Stefan has been playing with many orchestras. He is concert master of the Dover Symphony Orchestra, He is a member of several other orchestras and musical organizations on the East Coast.
Michael Toth
Michael started studying piano when he was 7. His career was set when he performed his debut at Carnegie Recital Hall in NYC when he was 14. Michael has been the pianist for the Allentown Symphony for the past 24 years and also has performed in chamber groups and as a soloist.
Michael also worked as an Electrical Engineer at AT&T Bell Labs. With his engineering background, Michael enjoys applying new technology to musical applications.
Stefan and Michael have been performing together for many years. Both members of the Allentown Symphony Orchestra, they also have performed with the Allentown Band and other chamber groups in the Lehigh Valley as well as being soloists.