Sonatina in C [HL:406510]

Description: This contains three movements similar to those that might be found in a classical sonatina. The first movement is in ABA' form with a medium tempo. The second movement has a lyrical, cantabile melody. The third movement is a fast “gigue-like” movement.

Purpose: The student may learn the variations in sound and mood produced by movements indicative of a classical sonatina.

Suggestions for Instruction: 1) Have the student try the right hand first, observing correct fingering. Practice tapering 3-note slurs that end with staccato. Practice playing crescendo and decrescendo, then add the left hand.

2) Allow the student to play the right-hand melody with appropriate shading and “breathing.” Introduce legato pedaling. Teach “following the line.”

3) Point out how the left hand mimics the chords in the right hand, hand-over-hand. Have the student practice the 3-note slurs in the right hand for a 'loud-soft-soft' type of sound. Work to make a distinction between f and mf. Have the student pedal with the harmonic changes.

Key: C Major