Mozart: First Movement (Theme and Variations) from Piano Sonata K331: For Cello and Accompaniment
Here is the sheet music of a cello transcription of the first movement of Mozart’s magnificent piano sonata in A Major K331. This movement, when played with all of Mozart’s repeats, lasts more than 12 minutes and with its six very different variations is like a stand-alone concert piece (Fantasia). Each of the six variations has the same structure with an 8-bar phrase followed by a 10-bar phrase, both of which are repeated. Unlike for the repeats of huge sections in symphonies and large scale works, the respect (playing) of the small repeats in this movement seems to be absolutely necessary. The key for the cello transcription has been lowered by a major third, bringing it into F major.
In this transcription for cello and accompaniment, two versions are presented:
- a version for “equal” duo in which the accompanying instrument is given the melodic protagonism for each repeat (and the cello takes the accompanying voice). This is not only respectful towards our pianist but also makes the repetition of each section much more interesting for our listeners
- an “unequal” duo in which the cello keeps the melodic protagonism at all times and the accompanying instrument always stays in its accompaniment role. In this version, we will need to make an effort to make each repetition interesting by changing dynamics, ornamentation etc. Because the accompaniment part in this version is simpler and easier, this is the version we would probably use if we are playing with a harp or guitar
Here below are links to the downloadable/printable sheet music:
- Equal Duo: Edited Cello Part
- Clean Cello Part
- Accompaniment Part
- Unequal Duo: Edited Cello Part
- Clean Cello Part
- Accompaniment Part
The accompaniment – especially the simple one of the “unequal” duo – can also theoretically be played on the harp or guitar. When played on the piano, we may want to fill in the harmonies with the pianist’s “spare” hand and fingers.
Here is an audio of the original piano sonata movement, recorded in 1958 by the extraordinary Walter Klien (1928-1991). It is played here in our key of F major so that we can play along with this master interpreter if we wish: