Description
The A-major Sonata D 664 holds an intriguing ambiguity regarding its origins, with uncertainty lingering over whether it was composed in 1825 or as early as 1819. Its stylistic similarities to the “Trout Quintet” D 667, which is widely believed to have been created in the autumn of 1819, lend credence to the earlier date. Regardless of its exact timeline, the sonata enjoys lasting popularity, attributed to its bright character and concise structure, featuring only three movements and omitting the typical scherzo or minuet. Often referred to as the “little A-major Sonata” to distinguish it from its larger counterpart, it presents only moderate technical demands, making it accessible for amateur pianists. The fingerings provided by esteemed Schubert interpreter Martin Helmchen serve as valuable guidance. As no original manuscripts exist, the Urtext edition published by G. Henle Publishers relies on the first posthumous edition from 1829, with any textual inquiries addressed in the accompanying commentary.
