The Sonata

Thomas Schmidt-Beste

Research output: Book/ReportBookpeer-review

Abstract

What is a sonata? Literally translated, it simply means ‘instrumental piece’. it is the epitome of instrumental music, and is certainly the oldest and most enduring form of ‘pure’ and independent instrumental composition, beginning around 1600 and lasting to the present day. Schmidt-Beste analyses key aspects of the genre including form, scoring and its social context - who composed, played and listened to sonatas? in giving a comprehensive overview of all forms of music which were called ‘sonatas’ at some point in musical history, this book is more about change than about consistency - an ensemble sonata by Gabrieli appears to share little with a Beethoven sonata, or a trio sonata by Corelli with one of Boulez's piano sonatas, apart from the generic designation. However, common features do emerge, and the look across the centuries - never before addressed in a single-volume survey - opens up new and significant perspectives.

Original languageEnglish
PublisherCambridge University Press
Number of pages263
ISBN (Electronic)9780511974298
ISBN (Print)9780521762540
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 2011
Externally publishedYes

Publication series

NameCambridge Introductions to Music
PublisherCambridge University Press

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