Mozart, Concerto no.23 in A major, for piano & orchestra, k.488

Question 1

How does the exposition differ from traditional approaches to sonata form? And
what is the function of this? Think specifically about the thematic material presented
there, and the tonalities used.

Answer 1

• Double exposition

- the thematic material is first presented by the orchestra and then restated by the soloist

Question 2

How is the “relationship” between the soloist and orchestra different in the
recapitulation vs. the exposition?

Answer 2

• integration of virtuosic passagework

- piano-orchestra dialogue

Question 3

In the one of the secondary theme areas of the exposition, find an example of
“dialogue” between soloist and orchestra.

Answer 3

Bar 120, S4 (Secondary Theme 4)

Question 4

What is particularly interesting and unusual about the development?

Answer 4

Uses the New Development Theme (NDT)

Question 5

What is the point of the dominant pedal at the end of the Development?

Answer 5

Use of transition of the recapitulation

Question 6

In the Recapitulation, what key do the orchestra and soloists use to recall the first and
second subjects in?

Answer 6

The tonic A major

Question 7

What is the function of the cadenza? How might its performance in the past (i.e. in
Mozart’s time) have been different to the present day? In the past, how would the
orchestra have known that the cadenza was over and that they should begin the
closing passage of the movement?

Answer 7

• Showing his virtuosity
• playing his distinctive style
• completely improvised
• V7 chord with trill = signal to orchestra for the end of the cadenza