Description
Written in 1789, this late keyboard sonata is unusual for its time in having only two movements: a slow opening movement followed by a lively rondo. The songful, expressive melody of the slow movement is especially striking, showing the mature Haydn making full use of the fortepiano's expressive capabilities. At around twelve minutes, it is a compact but rewarding work.
Sonatas across a range of instrumentations, including piano parts from violin sonatas, spanning Classical to Romantic styles.
About the Composer
Franz Joseph Haydn (1732-1809)
Franz Joseph Haydn was a leading Classical-era composer from Austria who spent much of his career in service to the Esterhazy family. Often called the "father of the symphony" and the "father of the string quartet," he helped establish the Viennese Classical style with clear forms and witty invention. His numerous keyboard sonatas also served as a bridge to Mozart and Beethoven. This site includes 60 of his works, including movements from Sonatas Hob. XVI:27 and 28.
View all works by Haydn →