Master Class with Kim Kashkashian

Brahms’ Sonata No. 2 in F Minor, Op. 2, was composed in Hamburg in 1852 and published in 1853. Although it was his second officially published work, Brahms wrote it before his Piano Sonata No. 1. Dedicated to Clara Schumann, the sonata is technically demanding and dramatic, making it a telling fit for the composer’s personality: it is the brainchild of Brahms’ own ambition, as well as his from Robert Schumann’s influence and guidance. Professor Kim Kashkashian leads her master class student through a personal expressive journey, which is a pinnacle in all of Brahms’ works. Most phrases are highly melodic, and mastering dynamics and phrasing here is tantamount to a successful performance. Kim Kashkashian is an American violist with a Grammy under her belt, in addition to an impressive slate of performances in Berlin, London, Vienna, and New York. She is recognized for her brilliant tone and pedagogy.