Bagatelle

Classical works

Definition

A short, light character piece of relatively modest technical demands and unpretentious character. The title means 'a trifle' in French.

Historical Context

Beethoven's three sets of Bagatelles (Opp. 33, 119, 126) established the form for piano, ranging from brief sketches to refined miniatures. His Op. 119 No. 11 in B minor is often cited as a model of economy. The term has since been used by Bartók, Dvořák, and others.

Works (25)

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