Description
The second movement of Sonata Hob.XVI:28 is a graceful minuet. Like Hob.XVI:27, this sonata places a minuet rather than a slow movement in the middle.
In E-flat major and 3/4, its theme stands out for a light step that mixes in dotted rhythms, while the trio offers a contrasting, calmer expression before the minuet returns. The contrast between the spring of the dotted rhythm and the calm of the trio is what to listen for.
It is approachable even for beginners, with a modest 427 notes. Still, it asks for a dance-like performance with a clear sense of the downbeat, and the point is to convey the lightness of the dance while holding the tempo. The range runs from E♭2 to C6 and fits on a 61-key keyboard. So that the dotted rhythm does not turn heavy, slow the playback and listen closely to the ratio of long to short notes, check the beat the left hand keeps with the hand colours, and then put the hands together.
Piano sonatas from Haydn's output of roughly 60, important works that helped shape the development of the Classical sonata.
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Sheet music provided by Mutopia Project
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 every movement of the Sonatas Hob. XVI:27 and XVI:28.
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