Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart

Sonata Bb Major K.292

Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart wrote not only a concerto for the bassoon, but also a Sonata for bassoon and violoncello (in B flat major, KV 292) the origins of which are obscure. The original manuscript has been lost, and the only extant documents are prints published after his death. While the string instrument in this work is only given the function of accompanying instrument, the bassoon has the leading part. It is therefore natural to think less of a duo playing on equal terms but rather of a sonata with basso continuo accompaniment. This edition therefore transforms the violoncello part into a basso continuo part so that the work can now be played as a 'normal' bassoon sonata with piano accompaniment - a nice addition to the repertoire! The solo part can alternatively be played by a violoncello as well.