Composer

:

Leo Sowerby

Genre

:

Keyboard

Style

:

Sonatina

Compose Date

:

1946

Average_duration

:

17:57

Movement_count

:

3

Movement ....

Leo Sowerby's Sonatina for organ is a three-movement work that was composed in 1946. The piece was premiered on May 4, 1947, at the National Cathedral in Washington, D.C., by the cathedral's organist, Paul Callaway. The first movement, marked "Allegro," is a lively and energetic piece that showcases the organ's capabilities for virtuosic playing. The movement is in sonata form, with a clear exposition, development, and recapitulation. The main theme is introduced in the opening bars and is developed throughout the movement, with a brief interlude featuring a more contemplative melody. The movement ends with a triumphant coda. The second movement, marked "Adagio," is a slow and contemplative piece that contrasts with the first movement's energy. The movement is in a simple ABA form, with a lyrical melody in the A section and a more chordal and harmonically complex B section. The movement features a wide range of dynamics, from the softest pianissimo to the loudest fortissimo, and showcases the organ's ability to create a wide range of colors and textures. The final movement, marked "Allegro giocoso," is a playful and lively piece that brings the sonatina to a joyful conclusion. The movement is in rondo form, with a recurring main theme that is interspersed with contrasting episodes. The movement features a variety of rhythmic patterns and syncopations, and the organist is called upon to use a variety of techniques, including staccato playing and pedal glissandos. Overall, Sowerby's Sonatina for organ is a virtuosic and engaging work that showcases the capabilities of the organ as a solo instrument. The piece is characterized by its lively rhythms, lyrical melodies, and harmonic complexity, and it remains a popular work in the organ repertoire to this day.

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