The most likely reason is . In most of the world, copyright for a work lasts for the lifetime of the composer plus 70 years after their death. Gyula Dávid passed away in 1977, meaning his works are still under copyright in many countries until January 1, 2048.
The International Music Score Library Project (IMSLP), also known as the Petrucci Music Library, is the premier digital repository for public domain sheet music. When searching for , public accessibility depends strictly on international copyright laws. Copyright Status Composer's Lifespan : Gyula Dávid passed away in 1977.
So, while you cannot find a free PDF on IMSLP, the site plays a vital role by acknowledging the work's existence and place in the viola repertoire.
Work and identification
A direct search for “Gyula David Viola Concerto IMSLP” yields the unfortunate but necessary truth: This is because the work, composed in 1950, remains under copyright protection in most major jurisdictions, including the United States and the European Union. Unlike a public domain work from the 18th or 19th century, which can be freely uploaded to IMSLP, Gyula David’s Viola Concerto is still actively protected by intellectual property law. While the composer’s own works may not be present, searches on IMSLP for “Gyula Dávid” will often show a different figure: Gyula Pfeiffer (whose birth name includes “Gyula”), an organist, likely due to their shared first name.
How to find and use the IMSLP material
(in case a manuscript or arrangement has been added recently): https://imslp.org/wiki/Category:D%C3%A1vid,_Gyula
The Viola Concerto has been praised for its melodic writing, nuanced orchestration, and technical demands that challenge even the most accomplished violists. Despite its artistic value, the concerto remains relatively unknown, making it an exciting discovery for those interested in exploring lesser-known works.
Written in the Lydian mode as a "homage to Bartók." It features dance-like themes, fourth-based phrases, and a brilliant, virtuoso central section. Sheet Music and Availability (IMSLP)
The concerto begins with a lively Allegro, featuring a virtuosic viola part that weaves in and out of the orchestral texture. The movement's themes are inspired by traditional Hungarian folk music, with a dash of modernism. The Adagio movement is a beautiful, contemplative piece, highlighting the viola's lyrical qualities. The final movement, Allegro vivace, is a thrilling conclusion to the concerto, with a driving rhythm and intricate solo passages.
The definitive edition of the concerto was published in 1952 by Editio Musica Budapest (EMB) . Because the work is still actively protected, clean retail editions—such as the standard 52-page solo part and piano reduction—must be purchased through licensed distributors like Ficks Music or Shar Music . Historical Context and Composition
While you mentioned "IMSLP," please note that this work is often still under copyright in many jurisdictions and may not be available for free download there.
: Authorized retailers sell the standard print edition (viola and piano reduction) edited by Pál Lukács.
Gyula Dávid (his surname is also often written in the Western order, David Gyula) was born in Budapest on May 6, 1913. He is an integral part of the generation of Hungarian composers who followed in the footsteps of Béla Bartók and Zoltán Kodály. Dávid entered the Franz Liszt Academy of Music, where he studied composition with Albert Siklós and, notably, , graduating in 1938. His work with Kodály extended beyond the classroom; Dávid assisted his teacher in collecting folk songs, and one song he gathered from the village of Karád was later used by Kodály himself for his composition Karádi nóták .
