Sonata

Sonata, musical composition for one or several instruments. In the classical sense, the term refers to a piece for piano solo or for a stringed or spiritual instrument with piano, consisting of several independent parts. The plan of the composite multi-part sonata and the restriction in the use of the term only by solo works were formed in the second half of the 18th century.

The word “sonata” is also often used in the term “sonata form”: in this case it does not refer to a multi-part work, but to the formal structure of one part of the sonata. Sonata form is also found in symphonies, concerts, trios, quartets, quintets, even in overture, etc. Continue reading →