Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart was born
Beginning of the composer’s lifetime.
About this piece
Though often taught as beginner piano pieces, these Sonatinas are arrangements of Mozart’s 1783 Divertimenti for winds (K. 439b). The first movement is a masterclass in contrast: it opens with a bold unison C major statement in octaves, immediately followed by a soft, chromatic, stepwise melody. The second theme brings yet another mood: a gentle lullaby over a clear left-hand accompaniment.
The key challenge lies in highlighting these shifts of character with refined touch and dynamic control. Articulation must remain clean and elegant, with careful attention to phrasing and voicing. These sonatinas are valuable not just for technical development, but for learning how to express Classical clarity and contrast with style.
Is this your next piece?
It might be a good next step if you're an intermediate pianist working on your technique.
Level guide
Equivalent to RCM level 5
Equivalent to ABRSM level 4
Equivalent to Suzuki book 4
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This piece
6 Viennese Sonatinas KV 439b was composed
Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart was 27 years old
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