Church Sonatas (Mozart)

Church Sonatas, also known as Epistle Sonatas, are a series of seventeen single-movement works composed by Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart between 1772 and 1780. These sonatas were specifically written for performance during the Mass, between the Epistle and the Gospel, primarily in Salzburg Cathedral.

The Church Sonatas are generally scored for two violins, bass (usually cello or double bass), organ, and sometimes oboes, trumpets, or timpani for festive occasions. They are typically short, lasting only a few minutes, and serve as interludes within the liturgical service.

While labelled "sonatas," these pieces deviate from the traditional sonata form. They are characterized by their concise nature and largely homophonic texture, featuring simple melodies and harmonic structures that were intended not to distract from, but rather complement, the religious ceremony.

Mozart wrote the majority of these sonatas while in the service of Archbishop Colloredo of Salzburg. Due to the Archbishop’s later reforms which aimed to shorten the liturgical service, the composition of these sonatas ceased after 1780. Despite their brevity and functional purpose, the Church Sonatas showcase Mozart's compositional skill and remain a significant part of his instrumental output, offering a glimpse into the musical practices of the Salzburg court.