JAVS Fall 1992

18

In all, Opus 44 is well worth any violist's examination. They are useful and enjoyable etudes for KUnstler-Bratschisten.

PALASCHKO'S REMAINING ETUDES

Here I offer a brief overview of the other Palaschko etudes, specifically trying to pinpoint a graded level of difficulty: easy, intermediate, difficult.

Opus 36. This volume is probably the most common and most used of Palaschko's pedagogical works for the viola. The reasons for this might be that they are easily purchased and consist of twenty pieces that could be seen as continuing in difficulty where Kreutzer leaves off. They start at the intermediate level, progressing gradually to the advanced. These are much like Opus 44 in that they are very tuneful and musical. They explore many difficult technical problems as well as musical ones. (Publishers: International, Siegel-Kisner) Opus 49. These etudes show a consistency in style. Depending on the tempos taken, the ten etudes could be classified as difficult. They may be somewhat easier technically than Opus 44. (Publisher: C. F. Schmitt) Opus 55. The twelve etudes found here are definitely more accessible to the intermediate player, with the possible exception of number 12. Along with Opus 36 and Opus 45, Opus 55 is also available. (Publisher: Urtext) Opus 62. These etudes belong to the difficult category. They stand nicely by themselves as concert pieces, particularly No.2, entitled "In the oriental style," as well as all others that are titled, such as No.9 "Souvenir." Although difficult, these twelve etudes are not as virtuosic as those in Opus 44. They are on the same level as the more advanced etudes of Opus 36. (Publisher: Ricordi)

Opus 66. 15 studies are contained, many with names of musical forms, such as that of No. IS, "Thema und Variationen." These are also in the difficult category:

Vivace e molto leggiero

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