JAVS Summer 2021

Example 3. Adolphus Hailstork, Sanctum, mm. 23–27. Dramatic subito dynamics. © 2008, Theodore Presser Company. Used with permission.

sustained note, and finally ends the phrase with a forte or fortissimo.

piece in regards to the versatility it affords the viola. This section is incredibly subdued, accentuated by a muted viola. The free-flowing and fast-moving triplets in m. 79 paired with the timbre change in the instrument create a whimsical sense of ease. This sense of whimsy is also due to the viola remaining between a pianissimo and mezzo forte dynamic. Inviting the viola to explore the multiple sounds and colors that are possible on the instrument is another clear way in which Hailstork highlights the full range of the viola. The element that makes this section, or even this piece, truly unique is Hailstork’s use of improvisation for both instruments. In m. 93 (ex. 5), Hailstork gives specific instructions to the viola and piano stating, to “Improvise freely, with short rapid figurations, using only these pitches [E, F, D; G, F, E], swelling to mp but only occasionally.” This section begins with the right hand of

A second way Hailstork showcases the power of the viola in this section is by having the viola enter on an offbeat, in a forte dynamic, in response to the piano. In the three times this happens, the piano presents triplets, helping to establish momentum for the phrase. The viola then answers in the following measure on the and of one, accompanied by sustained notes in the piano. This is effect can be seen most clearly in m. 56 and mm. 62–67 (ex. 4). Hailstork’s use of this idea, paired with the music nearing the climax of this section, hoists the viola as a true powerhouse. The third section, C, marked pianississimo delicato sempre , provides a solemn contrast to the chaos of the previous section. It also is one of the more unique sections of the

Example 4. Adolphus Hailstork, Sanctum, mm. 62–67. Off-beat entrances by the viola and piano. © 2008, Theodore Presser Company. Used with permission.

Journal of the American Viola Society / Vol. 37, 2021 Online Issue

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