The Duo for Violin and Viola, Op. 19 No. 4 by German composer F. A. Hoffmeister is undoubtedly among the most well written works for the violin and viola duet genre. Along with Wranitzky’s Sonata, this piece challenged us to strive for a warm and colourful sound without deviating too far from the Classical style of playing. Hoffmeister’s writing is at the same time playful and serious and, in our opinion, this duo is among one the most important works for violin and viola from the Classical period.

F. A. Hoffmeister was one of Germany’s most important figures in the music industry of the time. He owned the publishing company Hoffmeister & Kuhnel, which published works by composers such as Haydn, Mozart, and Beethoven. In addition to being an accomplished publisher Hoffmeister was also a remarkable composer. He composed for almost every genre, including more than 350 works for the flute.

The Duos for Violin and Viola, Op. 19 inspired composers such as Mozart, Lebrun, and Pleyel to write their own violin and viola duets. The Duo Op. 19 No. 4 showcases the composer’s mastery in composing for these instruments.