Rachmaninov - Cello Sonata (Urtext Edition, Cello Part Only)

Rachmaninov’s Cello Sonata in G minor, Op. 19, is one of the central works of the cello and piano repertoire. Composed in 1901, shortly after the completion of his Piano Concerto No. 2, the sonata shares that work’s expansive lyricism, rich harmonic language, and sweeping Romantic intensity. Although the piano part is highly developed and often symphonic in scope, the cello is given some of Rachmaninov’s most memorable and deeply expressive melodic writing.

This edition of the cello part is based on the composer’s autograph copy, now housed at the Russian National Museum of Music, formerly the Glinka Museum. The edition includes both an unmarked version and a version with fingerings and bowings. Many variants are included in the footnotes, allowing performers to compare readings and make informed interpretive decisions. A more detailed list of variants may be found here: https://yuriyleonovich.com/blogs/musings/posts/critical-notes-series-rachmaninov-s-cello-sonata

Well suited for advanced students, teachers, and performers, this edition offers a carefully sourced approach to one of the most beloved sonatas in the cello repertoire. It is especially useful for lessons, recitals, auditions, competitions, and serious study of Rachmaninov’s expressive style, giving cellists opportunities to develop long-breathed phrasing, tonal depth, rhythmic flexibility, ensemble balance, and Romantic lyricism.

ASTA level: 4–5