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The short answer
A familiar sonata with an uncertain date. Piano Sonata in A major, D. 664 / Op. posth. 120, movement I is a sonata by Franz Schubert from the Romantic era. PlayPiano puts it at Level 7, an estimate.
- sonata
- Romantic
- gentle
Also known as Piano Sonata in A major, D. 664 / Op. posth. 120: movement I; Schubert - Sonata in A Op. 120 D. 664 Movement I.
History
Schubert's A-major Sonata D. 664 may date from 1819 or 1825. Its similarity to the Trout Quintet supports the earlier date, but does not settle it. This edition represents the opening movement of a three-movement sonata.
Sources
What to listen for
Dotted motion shapes the first theme
Listen to the main theme’s dotted figure as part of its longer melodic phrase.
Triplets change the second theme
The second theme brings triplet motion. Compare its grouping with the earlier dotted figure.
Octave scales enlarge the motion
Octave scales enter the development. Hear their broader movement after the themes.
The ending becomes reflective
The coda turns toward a reflective close. Listen beyond the development’s larger motion.
How to practise it
Let the melody lead above its broken and held support layers.
- Practise the pickup into E, keeping the sixteenth light.
- Practise lower eighths against held bass first, then add the other layers selectively.
- Connect the examined phrase at a comfortable tempo while keeping its stated layers and releases distinct.
How hard is it
Long lyrical phrases and contrasting passagework require a sustained singing tone and fluent coordination.
About this piece
- Collection
- Sonata journeys
- Licence
- CC0
- Source
- musescore.com
More by Franz Schubert
- German Dance in A-flat major, D. 365 No. 1Level 3, estimatedWith Maestro
- Moments Musicaux No. 3 in F MinorLevel 5, estimatedWith Maestro
- Impromptu No. 4 in F minor, D. 935 (Op. 142)Level 9, estimatedWith Maestro
