Viktor Kalabis

1. Piano Sonata op. 2

Viktor Kalabis (1924-2006) studied piano, composition and conducting at the Prague Conservatoire and at the Charles University. The long-time president of the Bohuslav Martinu Foundation is one of the best-known Czech composers of the present time who wrote primarily orchestral and chamber music. The two piano sonatas show that he was a master of form and effective piano settings. Sonata No. 1 (1947) consists of three movements; the slow movement 'Tempo di marcia funebre' is framed by two classical quick movements delightful to play. Sonata No. 2 (1948) surprises by subtle sound formations and interesting polyrhythmic figures. As regards form, the sonata consists of two movements and breaks further away from the classical sonata form. Rewarding contemporary pieces for concerts and exams.