A multi-movement composition in classical music, typically written for a solo instrument (often piano) or for a melody instrument with piano accompaniment.
example
Sie übt gerade die Mondscheinsonate von Beethoven am Klavier.
She is currently practicing Beethoven's Moonlight Sonata on the piano.
Usage tips
Typical verbs
In connection with a sonata, verbs such as 'spielen' (to play), 'üben' (to practice), 'hören' (to listen to), or 'komponieren' (to compose) are typically used.
EXAMPLE
Der Pianist wird heute Abend eine Sonate von Mozart spielen.
The pianist will play a sonata by Mozart this evening.
Sentence structure with composers
To name the composer of a sonata, you use the preposition 'von' (by) followed by the name. Famous sonatas often also have their own name.
EXAMPLE
Die „Pathétique“ ist eine berühmte Sonate von Ludwig van Beethoven.
The 'Pathétique' is a famous sonata by Ludwig van Beethoven.
Context: classical music
This word belongs firmly to the vocabulary of classical music. It does not refer to just any piece of music, but to a composition with a specific, multi-movement form.
EXAMPLE
Im Musikunterricht analysieren wir die Form einer klassischen Sonate.
In music class, we are analyzing the form of a classical sonata.
Compare with
confusable
Sonate vs Konzert
concert
'das Konzert' and 'die Sonate' both belong to music, especially classical music. The most important difference is this: a 'Konzert' can be an event where music is performed in front of an audience. In classical music, however, 'Konzert' can also mean a musical work for a solo instrument and orchestra. A 'Sonate', on the other hand, is a musical work, usually for piano alone or for an instrument with piano. Learners may confuse the words because both can be names for classical pieces of music. A practical tip: for an event, you say 'Konzert'. For a piece for piano or a small instrument, 'Sonate' often fits.
Sonate
Im Musikunterricht spielt Lisa eine Sonate von Beethoven auf dem Klavier.
In music class, Lisa is playing a sonata by Beethoven on the piano.
Konzert
Am Samstag hören wir ein Konzert mit Klavier und Orchester.
On Saturday, we are listening to a concerto with piano and orchestra.