Membel
German NOUN B2 Rank 12213

die Sonate

sonata

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Meanings

01

die Sonate

sonata

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.

Visual example for Sonate: die Sonate

Usage tips

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.

Visual example for Konzert
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.

Open full lesson: Konzert →

In real life

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