Abrsm 2025 & 2026
Grade 4 Piano Exam
Category A 2
Song Name / Song Piece Sonata In G
Composer Domenico Cimarosa
Recommended tempo for this piece is 144 bpm, as played in this video, and a good steady tempo is required throughout. Careful execution of the slurs is vital in order to recreate the elegant and graceful sound required in this type of 18th Century Classical style. The main consideration is remembering that any slurred notes can be played lighter at the end of each group - this creates a light-hearted and delicate effect, which is much needed. I tended to play most of the left-hand quavers in a bouncy staccato-like manner, in order to give the piece some lift, which is a common approach when playing this style of music, but it is not strictly necessary, more a matter of personal choice.
Dynamics are relatively straightforward, but be sure to look out for the crescendos in bars 17, 20, 36, and 39, because the gradual building up of volume on those particular areas adds style and accuracy to the performance and is very effective. The closing bars don’t appear to have any rit. (slowing down) markings, although a slight easing of the tempo on the final two bars (41 & 42) could work well, provided it is subtile.
