Zelter, Viola Concerto (Kunzelmann)

Elegant Classical writing meets a surprisingly bold solo voice in Carl Friedrich Zelter’s Viola Concerto in E-flat Major. Published by Edition Kunzelmann and edited by Franz Beyer, this edition presents the concerto for viola with piano reduction, making an important eighteenth-century viola work practical for lessons, rehearsals, auditions, and recital performance. Zelter gives the viola ample opportunity to display both its warm lyrical character and its more brilliant, agile side.

The concerto is structured in three contrasting movements—Allegro con fuoco, Adagio non troppo, and Rondo: Poco moderato. For the developing serious violist, the work offers valuable experience in Classical articulation, phrasing, shifting, intonation, rhythmic clarity, and solo projection. Its combination of expressive slow writing and energetic outer movements makes it particularly rewarding for players expanding into substantial Classical concerto repertoire.

Movements:

I. Allegro con fuoco

II. Adagio non troppo

III. Rondo: Poco moderato

Key Features:

• Music by Carl Friedrich Zelter
• Published by Edition Kunzelmann
• Edited by Franz Beyer
• Viola Concerto in E-flat Major
• For viola with piano reduction
• Originally composed for viola and orchestra.
• Three contrasting movements
• Important Classical-era viola repertoire
• Ideal for lessons, auditions, examinations, and recitals

Musical Benefits:

• Develops Classical articulation and phrasing
• Strengthens shifting, intonation, and bow control
• Refines rhythmic precision and tonal clarity
• Builds confidence in concerto-style solo playing