Sonata Pian' e Forte

Analysis


This is the very first extant composition to have markings on the music to indicate contrasts between Piano (soft) and Forte (loud). It is also one of the first pieces in which the composer gives a detailed indication of which instruments are to be used.

The sonata comes from the Sacrae Symphonie (Venice, c.1597) and is scored for two groups of four instruments. Each group of instruments is titled Coro, meaning choir, a term used to mean both instrumental and vocal groups during the Renaissance.

Gabrieli obtains contrast in this piece by allowing the groups to play together and separately. When each group plays alone, the music is marked Piano; when the groups combine, the marking is Forte.
Music Manuscript
An early music manuscript

The music begins with Coro 1 playing Piano. Starting in G minor, the music moves through G major, briefly touching D major before ending their opening sequence back at G major in preparation for Coro 2's entry.
Music example 1a
Music Example 1b
Music Example 1cPlay Music Example
Note the use of suspension in the music; this creates a feeling of anticipation, waiting for the harmonies to resolve.
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Musical extracts are taken from the Historical Anthology of Music (Volume I) by A.T.Davison and W.Appel.
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