A little tidbit about Sonata Music...

Ever wondered just what a sonata is? A sonata is an instrumental composition performed by one or two solo instruments; including cello, piano or violin. Normally, a keyboard instrument is used in a sonata and may involve three or four, variable movements.

Historically, the term "sonata" finds its roots during the late 1700s. Beginning sonatas were comprised of three movements: Allegro style; Andante or Largo style; and a closing movement. Through the ages, however, sonata incorporated 4 movements - which became its defining standard.

Famous 18th and 19th century sonata composers include Mozart; Beethoven; Brahms; Chopin; Franschubert; Mendelssohn; and Schumann. In the 19th century; one of many sonata composers, Max Reger created seven sonatas for solo violin (Opus 91).

One of today's top performers is British violinist, Daniel Hope, who fondly carries on the tradition of his violin sonata.

To learn more about sonata music, or if you are seeking specific sonata music, feel free to listen to Media Positive Radio or visit our recording artist biography pages.