Piano Trio No 1 in B flat, D898, Op. 99 (Schubert)
Movements
i Allegro moderato, ii Andante un poco mosso, iii Scherzo. Allegro, iv Rondo. Allegro vivace
Notes
The Piano Trio No. 1 in Bâ™ major for piano, violin, and cello was written by Franz Schubert in 1827. The composer finished the work in 1828, in the last year of his life. It was published in 1836 as Opus 99, eight years after the composer’s death.
The first movement is in sonata form with two main themes in the exposition. The first theme is characterized by dotted rhythms and irregular phrase lengths, while the second theme by contrast has lyrical melodies and regular phrases.
The second movement is in the style of a gondola song with a lilting melody and swaying rhythm.
The third movement is in the classical minuet form. The scherzo proper features heavy counterpoint, with the three instruments constantly imitating each other. The trio section is a relaxed waltz.
The principal theme of the last movement resembles that of one of Schubert’s songs, “Skolie”, although this resemblance might be accidental.
