Eighteenth-Century Sonata

The eighteenth-century sonata was a popular musical form consisting of a series of contrasting movements, typically including a lively, expressive opening, a slower, more introspective middle, and a brisk closing. Composers like Haydn, Mozart, and early Beethoven expanded its structure, adding emotional depth and technical complexity. Sonatas were written for solo instruments, especially the piano, and served as both entertainment and a display of skill. They often followed specific patterns but also allowed for personal expression, reflecting the evolving tastes and musical exploration of the Enlightenment era.