Master presenter Rob Kapilow explains why Beethoven’s Violin Sonata No. 9, Op. 47, known as the “Kreutzer” sonata, was a milestone in the history of Western music. Kapilow argues that this is the first “radically individual” violin sonata, comparable in importance to other ground-breaking works from Beethoven’s middle period such as the Eroica Symphony.

Pour yourself a drink, find a comfortable seat, and prepare to be astonished.


1. Presentation

Merkin Concert Hall, November 2015

2. Performance

Nurit Pacht, violin ∙ Taisiya Pushkar, piano


For more from Rob Kapilow, visit What Makes It Great on the WWFM website.