Suk - About Friendship, Op.36

[cbreemer]

The Czech composer Josef Suk (1874-1935) is best known for his orchestral works, and for being Antonin Dvorak's son-in-law. Not only did Suk marry Dvorak's daughter Otilie (affectionately known as Otilka), he also shared Dvorak's passion for trains. In 1904-05 Suk suffered a terrible blow when, in a span of 14 months, both Dvorak and Otilie died. His way of dealing with his grief and loss was to create his magnum opus, the dark and magnificent Asrael symphony.

Suk's piano works are not yet sufficiently recognized for what they are. When I first heard this wonderful piece "About Friendship" (also known as just " Friendship"), composed in 1920, it was instant love. I just had to play it and it took first priority over everything else I was practicing. One of the most beautiful piano pieces I know, with full-blooded and tender writing, it seems to me to do full justice to its title, telling the story of a long and deep friendship, some quarreling along the way, and a most affecting reconciliation. I hope some of you out there will get to love this piece, and Suk's music in general) as much as I do.