Brahms: Cello Sonata No.2, Op.99

Introduction

The Cello Sonata No. 2 in F major, Op. 99, was written by Johannes Brahms in 1886, more than twenty years after completing his Sonata No. 1. It was first published in 1887. It was written for, dedicated to and first performed by Robert Hausmann, who had popularised the First Sonata, and who would the following year be given the honour of premiering the Double Concerto in A minor with Joseph Joachim. 

Musical description

There are four movements:

1. Allegro vivace
2. Adagio affettuoso in F♯ major
3. Allegro passionato in F minor
4. Allegro molto

First movement

The Allegro vivace is a sonata form opening with a fragmented cello theme over a tremolo piano part.

Second movement

Adagio affettuoso, with the cello part opening in a pizzicato exposition of the main theme over piano chords. The central section is in F minor.

Third movement

Allegro passionato in F minor, with a more songlike trio section in F major.

Fourth movement

Allegro molto; a rondo.