There is not an
abundant literature for this kingly instrument, in conjunction
with the piano, so why flaunt Chopin's contribution? I will admit
that he walks stiffly, encased in his borrowed garb, but there is
the andante, short as it is, an effective scherzo and a carefully
made allegro and finale. Tonal monotony is the worst charge to be
brought against this work.
The trio, also in G minor, op. 8, is more alluring. It was
published March, 1833, and dedicated to Prince Anton Radziwill.
Chopin later, in speaking of it to a pupil, admitted that he saw
things he would like to change. He regretted not making it for
viola, instead of violin, 'cello and piano.
It was worked over a long time, the first movement being ready in
1833. When it appeared it won philistine praise, for its form
more nearly approximates the sonata than any of his efforts in
the cyclical order, excepting op. 4. In it the piano receives
better treatment than the other instruments; there are many
virtuoso passages, but again key changes are not frequent or
disparate enough to avoid a monotone.
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