Japanese composer Kishio Hirao (1907-1953) first studied medicine before changing to music. His 1947Ā SonateĀ for Violin and Piano is a challenging yet exciting addition to the repertoire. Hirao moved to Paris where he studied harmony counterpoint and composition at the Ecole CĆ©sar Franck. TheĀ SonateĀ is in three movements; 1) Moderato-Allegro Agitato 2) Andante and 3) Vivacissimo. The work is in F major with the middle movement modulating to D major however tonality is substantially exploited. For all advanced violinists and pianists Hirao'sĀ SonateĀ for Violin and Piano is a riveting addition to the repertoire.