'Sonata' definitions:

Definition of 'sonata'

From: WordNet
noun
A musical composition of 3 or 4 movements of contrasting forms

Definition of 'Sonata'

From: GCIDE
  • Sonata \So*na"ta\, n. [It., fr. It. & L. sonare to sound. See Sound a noise.] (Mus.) An extended composition for one or two instruments, consisting usually of three or four movements; as, Beethoven's sonatas for the piano, for the violin and piano, etc. [1913 Webster]
  • Note: The same general structure prevails in symphonies, instrumental trios, quartets, etc., and even in classical concertos. The sonata form, distinctively, characterizes the quick opening movement, which may have a short, slow introduction; the second, or slow, movement is either in the song or variation form; third comes the playful minuet or the more modern scherzo; then the quick finale in the rondo form. But both form and order are sometimes exceptional. [1913 Webster]

Words containing 'Sonata'