In June 1945, Shostakovich began composition of what was to be a violin sonata. This unfinished work gives new insight into the composer's creative process. Includes manuscript facsimiles. Numerous musical ideas occur in this short piece. Both themes appear in Shostakovich's Tenth Symphony, and Russian folk song forms are evident. Beethoven's Moonlight Sonata is called to mind, giving rise to Shostakovich's creativity and attentive ear.--American String Teacher