Piano Concerto No. 23 in A Major, K. 488
Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart
Work background
Researched classical background
Mozart gives this A-major concerto a particularly warm wind sound by using clarinets in the ensemble. Its lyrical first movement is followed by a slow movement in F-sharp minor, an unusual key in his output. The finale restores animated exchanges between soloist and orchestra. The three movements contrast strongly while retaining an intimate scale of conversation.
A listening guide
Listen to the clarinets around the piano, then compare the slow movement's exposed melody with the finale's busier dialogue.
Listening suggestions are editorial guides to the music.
Forces: Solo piano and orchestra
Composition: 1786
Completed during Mozart's work on The Marriage of Figaro.
This entry describes the musical work or cycle. Composition, premiere and publication dates describe different events. Performers and recordings can be explored through the external listening search.
Piano Concerto No. 23 in A, K. 488 - LA Phil
Work identity, chronology where stated, and the specific musical or historical context summarized in this entry. | Reviewed 2026-10-19
Sources for this work
Piano Concerto No. 23 in A, K. 488 - LA Phil
Work identity, chronology where stated, and the specific musical or historical context summarized in this entry. | Reviewed 2026-10-19
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