Henle Verlag Rachmaninov S. - Piano Sonata N°2 Op.36 (versions 1913 & 1931) - Piano
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Summary of This Score
With the Piano Sonata No. 2 in B-flat minor, Op. 36, versions 1913 and 1931, Henle finally offers an Urtext edition worthy of one of the most remarkable pages in Sergei Rachmaninoff's piano repertoire. This sonata, spectacular and deeply architectured, concentrates all that makes the composer's language unique: symphonic breadth at the keyboard, harmonic richness, inner lyricism, and virtuosity supported by sometimes extremely compact writing.
The heart of this publication lies in the coexistence of the two states of the work. The 1913 version, longer and denser, is often favored by pianists for its scope and development. The 1931 revision, stemming from the composer's desire to "tighten" the discourse, includes cuts and lightening that have fueled numerous interpretative debates. This edition thus allows an enlightened approach to the sonata: performing one of the versions, precisely understanding what changes (structure, transitions, textures), or even following the tradition of certain performers who have combined elements from both versions.
Edited by Dominik Rahmer, the score also relies on the autograph manuscript preserved in Moscow, enhancing the reliability of the musical text. As in other Henle volumes dedicated to Rachmaninoff, the fingerings by Marc-André Hamelin provide concrete added value for daily work: they guide hand placement, management of large chords and rapid shifts, while leaving the pianist free to develop their own solution. An ideal edition for the advanced pianist seeking a reference piano score, equally relevant for in-depth study and concert program preparation.
Technical specifications
| Musical Genre | Classical | Publication | Sheet music |
| Composer | Sergei Rachmaninoff | Instrumentation | Piano |
| Edition | Henle Urtext | Genre | Classical score |
Questions frequently asked
Does Rachmaninov's Sonata No. 2 Op. 36 include both the 1913 and 1931 versions?
This Henle Urtext edition brings together both versions of the Piano Sonata No. 2 Op. 36: the 1913 original and the 1931 revision.
What are the differences between the 1913 and 1931 versions of Sonata No. 2?
The 1913 version features a longer and denser form. The 1931 revision condenses the material through cuts and simplifications. The score allows identification of changes in structure, transitions, and textures between the two versions.
Are Marc-André Hamelin's fingerings included?
Marc-André Hamelin's fingerings are incorporated in this edition. They specifically address hand placement, large chords, and quick passages, without imposing a single working solution.
What source is used for this Rachmaninov Urtext edition?
The musical text edited by Dominik Rahmer notably relies on the autograph manuscript preserved in Moscow.
Is this score suitable for preparing Rachmaninov's Sonata No. 2 for concert performance?
Intended for solo piano, this edition targets advanced pianists. The sonata’s writing involves significant virtuosity and sometimes very dense textures. The two available versions allow preparation of the chosen text for a concert program.



