About this edition
Beethoven's Violin Concerto in D major, Op. 61 stands as the first great violin concerto of the Romantic era and remains the cornerstone of the solo violin repertoire. Composed in 1806 for the virtuoso Franz Clement, the work is renowned for its serene, almost symphonic opening—famously launched by four soft timpani strokes—its luminous slow Larghetto, and the joyful rondo finale that has captivated audiences and soloists for more than two centuries. Though coolly received at its premiere, it has since become the benchmark by which all subsequent violin concertos are measured.
This printing reproduces the score from Ludwig van Beethovens Werke, the first complete critical edition of Beethoven's works, issued by Breitkopf & Härtel of Leipzig between 1862 and 1890 (Serie 4, No. 29; plate B.29). Prepared by a distinguished editorial committee that included Johannes Brahms, Joseph Joachim, and other leading musicians of the period, the Breitkopf Gesamtausgabe established the textual foundation upon which virtually all later editions of Beethoven's music have been built. Its engraving is admired for its clarity and elegance, and it remains a touchstone reference for conductors, performers, and scholars working with the Op. 61 score.
About this edition:
- Full orchestral score (conductor's score) with solo violin part integrated
- Page size: 8.5 x 11 inches, suitable for study, library shelves, and rehearsal use
- Faithfully reproduced from the historic Breitkopf & Härtel Gesamtausgabe
- Reprinted from a public domain source
- Published by Purple 4R Publishing
This edition is offered as a clean reprint of a historical score that has long been in the public domain, making one of the supreme masterworks of the concerto repertoire affordable and accessible to violinists, conductors, students, and music lovers everywhere. We hope it serves you well in study, rehearsal, and performance.
