What does sonata mean?
A sonata is a substantial instrumental composition written for a solo instrument or a small ensemble. It is especially associated with the piano, but sonatas are also written for violin, cello, flute, clarinet, guitar, and other instruments, frequently in pairs or groups. The word commonly appears in titles such as piano sonata and violin sonata, as well as in phrases such as play a sonata and sonata recital. Unlike a concerto, which typically gives a solo instrument prominence within an orchestral setting, a sonata is generally self-contained and may be written for chamber players. Sonatas vary greatly in length, character, and historical style, ranging from Baroque works intended for court performance to more experimental modern compositions. The term is also sometimes used more broadly for extended instrumental works, though its traditional meaning remains closely tied to music for solo performers or small ensembles.
nounAn extended composition for one instrument or a small ensemble, especially one written for the piano. The term can also refer more broadly to a musical composition designed for solo performance.
- A musical composition for one instrument or a small ensemble, especially a composition for piano.
"She performed a dramatic piano sonata by Chopin at the recital."
"The string quartet performed three sonatas written for their ensemble."
"His latest recording includes an arrangement of a Baroque violin sonata."
The plural is formed by adding -s to the singular form.
"The collection includes sonatas by Beethoven, Chopin, and Mozart."
The word sonata comes from Italian and literally means something that is sounded or played, a fitting name for music built around instrumental performance.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Etymology of sonata
The English word sonata comes from Italian, where it means a piece of music that is sounded or played. Italian sonata derives from sonare, a verb meaning to sound, which comes from Latin sonare, with the same basic meaning. Related English words include sonorous and sonority, while sound belongs to the same Latin etymological family.
Related word forms
How sonata is actually used
In modern usage, sonata most often denotes an extended instrumental composition, particularly one for piano. It is commonly used in titles and formal program notes, while concerto, suite, and nocturne distinguish related instrumental forms.
Easily confused with sonata
A sonata is typically a self-contained composition for solo instruments or a small ensemble, whereas a concerto prominently features a solo instrument accompanied by an orchestra.