Classical Sonatinas for Piano Compilation

Sonatinas are sometimes considered stepping stones into the vast world of classical music. These shorter, typically lighter works are often used in music education, due to their accessible melodies and manageable technical demands. For many people, a sonatina by Beethoven, or Clementi or Kuhlau is the first piece of classical music they fall in love with. This collection draws together some of the best of them.

1. Clementi - Sonatina Op 36, No 1

Muzio Clementi's Sonatina Op. 36, No. 1 is a charming piece that serves as a perfect introduction to Clementi's sonatinas and, more broadly, to the Classical piano sonatina form.

Sonatina Op 36, No 1

2. Beethoven - Sonatina in G (1st mvt)

Ludwig van Beethoven's Sonatina in G major, Anh. 5, is a delightful piece that displays the accessible, yet expressive, side of Beethoven's compositional style. This sonatina is often one of the first Beethoven pieces that piano students encounter. The first movement- Moderato - is a sunny, straightforward piece in sonata form, which is a classic form containing exposition, development, and recapitulation sections. The themes are memorable and the mood is generally cheerful, reflecting the major key.

Sonatina in G (1st mvt)

3. Beethoven - Sonatina in F 1st mvt

Sonatina in F 1st mvt

4. Beethoven - Sonatina in G (2nd mvt)

The second movement of Beethoven's Sonatina in G is marked as "Romanze". It is slower and more lyrical, providing a nice contrast to the first movement.

Sonatina in G (2nd mvt)

5. Kuhlau - Sonatina Op.55 No.1 2nd mvt

Friedrich Kuhlau is most famous as the so-called "Beethoven of the flute." He was a German-Danish composer of the early Romantic period and wrote many works for flute even though he didn't play it himself. However, he also composed a significant number of works for piano, including a collection of sonatinas that are popular teaching pieces today. The Sonatina Op. 55, No. 1 is an excellent introduction to the composer's elegant and engaging style.

Sonatina Op.55 No.1 2nd mvt

6. Duncombe - Sonatina in C Major

William Duncombe was an English composer of the Baroque period, known for his educational pieces. His works are appreciated for their musicality, as well as their suitability for beginners.The Sonatina in C Major by Duncombe is a piece beloved by many piano students and teachers alike. It is a short, accessible work typically encountered early in a pianist's training. Despite its simplicity, it provides a wonderful introduction to key elements of classical style.