How does a sonata differ from a concerto?

While a concerto can be considered a special case of the broader sonata genre—as both share structural principles like sonata form—they differ significantly in their execution and intent.

The primary distinction lies in the concerto's inherent dialogue between a solo instrument and an orchestra. This relationship creates a competitive, virtuosic dynamic that influences the composition's structure, such as the use of a double exposition in the first movement, where the orchestra and soloist are introduced separately.12

Other key differences include:

• Movement Structure: While sonatas vary in their number of movements, the concerto has more consistently followed a three-movement, fast-slow-fast plan.2
• Cadenzas: Concertos frequently feature a cadenza—an extended, often improvised flourish for the soloist—designed to showcase technical brilliance near the end of a movement.32
• Instrumentation: A sonata is typically written for one or two instruments, whereas a concerto is specifically defined by the opposition and combination of a soloist against an orchestral ensemble.42