Structural Overview

General Structure

• Form: Sonata form, adapted to the concerto structure, with an orchestral exposition, solo exposition, development, recapitulation, and coda.
• Key: A Major.
• The movement balances dialogue between the solo piano and orchestra, blending Classical elegance with virtuosic expression.

Section Breakdown

Orchestral Exposition (Bars 1–65)

• Role: Introduces the main themes without the piano, setting the stage for the soloist.
• Themes:
  • First Theme: A graceful, lyrical melody in A major, played by the strings and woodwinds.
  • Second Theme: A contrasting, more playful and rhythmically lively theme in the dominant key (E major).
• Features:
  • Use of light orchestration with interplay between strings and woodwinds.
  • Establishes a serene, balanced Classical character.

Solo Exposition (Bars 66–149)

• Role: The piano enters, restating and elaborating on the themes introduced by the orchestra.
• Features:
  • Virtuosic runs and embellishments highlight the piano's technical and expressive capabilities.
  • New material: The piano introduces a fresh melodic idea, adding variety to the exposition.
  • The second theme is revisited, now more ornamented, maintaining its playful character.

Development (Bars 150–194)

• Role: Explores and develops the themes through modulation and dramatic contrasts.
• Features:
  • Frequent key changes, moving away from A major to create tension.
  • Interplay between piano and the interplay, with fragmented motifs and sequences.
  • Greater use of chromaticism, adding depth and complexity to the harmonic palette.

Recapitulation (Bars 195–272)

• Role: Returns to the main themes, resolving the tension from the development.
• Features:
  • First theme reappears in AThe firstr, played by both piano and orchestra.
  • The second theme is restated in the tonic key (A major) instead of the dominant, as is typical in Classical sonata form.
  • A cadenza allows the soloist to display technical skill and improvisatory flair before the final orchestral passage.

Coda (Bars 273–294)

• Role: Bring the movement to a close with a brief but lively conclusion.
• Features:
  • Reinforces the tonic key of A major with strong cadences.
  • The piano and orchestra combine for a final statement of elegance and energy.

Key Features of the Movement

• Classical Sonata Form: Adapted to fit the concerto style, allowing interplay between soloist and orchestra.
• Virtuosity and Lyricism: Combines the technical brilliance of the piano with Mozart's gift for beautiful melodies.
• Dialogue Between Piano and Orchestra: Alternates roles of accompaniment and soloist, creating a balanced and dynamic musical conversation.