Sonata-Fantaisie in G-sharp minor (Scriabin)

The Sonata-Fantaisie in G-sharp minor, Op. 19, is a single-movement piano sonata by Alexander Scriabin, composed in 1892, during his early period. It marks a transition in Scriabin's style, blending traditional Romantic elements with nascent hints of his later, more mystical and harmonically adventurous approach.

The piece is characterized by its lyrical melodies, dramatic contrasts, and virtuosic passages. It is generally considered more accessible than Scriabin's later works, retaining a strong influence from composers like Chopin and Liszt. Despite this, the Sonata-Fantaisie also exhibits unique features, including unusual harmonic progressions and a certain restless, searching quality that foreshadows Scriabin's future stylistic evolution.

The structure of the Sonata-Fantaisie is somewhat unconventional, defying a strict adherence to sonata form. It can be broadly divided into several contrasting sections, including a melancholic opening theme, a more passionate and turbulent central section, and a lyrical, almost ethereal concluding passage. The work utilizes a wide range of dynamics and textures, showcasing Scriabin's pianistic skill and his ability to evoke a range of emotions.

Although not as widely performed as some of Scriabin's later sonatas, the Sonata-Fantaisie is a significant work in his output, providing valuable insight into the development of his musical language and serving as a bridge between his early Romantic influences and his later, more individualistic and complex compositions. It is often appreciated for its emotional depth, its melodic beauty, and its technical demands.