If you’ve been a piano student or performer for any length of time, you’ve probably come across the terms “sonata” and “sonatina”. But, have you ever wondered to yourself, what’s the difference between sonatas vs. sonatinas?
These musical forms have been around since the early 16th century, but even after over 400 years of existence, there is still no conclusive definition for either of them. Musical scholars and performers alike have debated what these terms truly mean, and their definitions vary widely.
So how do you determine the difference, and which of these forms is best for the student pianist to explore?
Perhaps the best way to begin this conversation is to explain the sonata form (sometimes called sonata-allegro), which in most musical circles is considered the foundation of a complete composition.
The Basics of Sonata Form
Sonata form consists of an A section, commonly called the exposition. The exposition often contains two themes that complement each other, but that together constitute a complete musical idea. This exposition could be considered the ‘main idea’ of the composition.
It is followed by a section which expands and adds variety to the theme, which is labeled the development. The development may include several harmonic and rhythmic adaptations to the theme introduced in the exposition. In general, the purpose of the development is to add tension and an air of uncertainty to the piece, so that the listener is left wondering what’s going to happen next.
Finally, the piece restates the original theme, which is called recapitulation. This is a resolution of the question the development asks and brings the piece to a satisfying conclusion.
Some sonatas also include a coda or cadenza, which is an improvisational, extended ending to the composition. This final movement is not designed to introduce new ideas; rather, it allows the composer or performer to add more color and flair to the ending of the piece.
To add to the complexity, the sonata form is not always simply a single composition. The term can also refer to a multi-movement piece in which the sonata-allegro form is simply the first movement. (Confusing, right?)
Examples and Applications
In terms of the piano repertoire, composers like Beethoven and Mozart mastered this form and composed several famous sonatas which are performed regularly by pianists all over the world.
However, the sonata is not relegated to the classical or Romantic periods. Many composers have adapted the form to their own preferences and creative inspirations; however, the core of the sonata remains a fundamental expression of how musical pieces are organized – by taking a musical idea, developing it, and then relieving the tension by bringing the piece back to the original theme.
The Sonatina: A comparison of Characteristics
So, you might ask, what is a sonatina? Does it follow the same format? Is there any recognizable difference between the two forms?
Well, yes and no.
The definition of a sonatina is, as you might guess, is “little sonata”. So, the very nature of a sonatina is designed to mimic the form of a sonata, but it usually takes a different route to achieve the musical goal.
First, a sonatina rarely has all three sections of a sonata form. While there may be an exposition, which can contain an A and B melodic theme, many composers will shorten or eliminate the development section when writing a sonatina.
For that reason, the sonatina is often considered excellent repertoire for beginning students. This doesn’t mean that all sonatinas are written for less experienced pianists, but it is often a good choice because of the lack of the development section, which can often require more harmonic development. For example, the 19th century composer, Muzio Clementi often wrote sonatinas that were intended primarily for his students and are still popular today with piano teachers.
Other composers use the sonatina form to create the equivalent of a musical short story. They may include more thematic development, but still do not rise to the level of a full sonata.
Same But Different – How Sonatinas Differ From Sonatas
The key difference between a sonata and a sonatina is not only the length, but also the implied complexity of the organizational structure. While a sonatina can be technically complex, rarely does it include the intricate thematic development of a complete sonata. In fact, many times a sonatina is not named as such by the composer, but other musical authorities will label it as a sonatina because they recognize these features.
One need only study the differences between a full-fledged Beethoven sonata and a Haydn sonatina to see that while both composers are masters at their craft, the purpose and musical goals of the pieces are entirely different.
One piece seeks to create a complete compositional thought, while the other provides more of a succinct musical statement that can be understood in less time or with less effort.
Sonatas Vs. Sonatinas: Which Type of Composition is Best For Me?
For this reason, you can simply look at the relative technical and musical requirements of a sonata or sonatina to determine whether a piece works for you.
As in most musical situations, only the pianist and piano teacher can best decide whether a sonata or sonatina is the optimal piece to add to one’s repertoire.
As pianists continue to explore existing literature, and composers continue to create new music, the fundamental elements of these two classic forms will continue to evolve.
The best part is that we have both types of music to play, study and enjoy, and they will never go out of style.
Allen C. Paul