Kabalevsky composed many pieces for children, many of which allow them to develop musicality while enjoying themselves, with relatively simple techniques. His two Sonatinas are among them. Sonatina No. 1 in C major was composed in 1930, and Sonatina No. 2 in G minor in 1933. Sonatina No. 1 in C major, in particular, is light and elegant yet possesses a brilliant atmosphere, and is frequently performed. However, some critics point out that Sonatina No. 1 is played too often, without realizing that Sonatina No. 2 in G minor is more musical.

Consists of three movements.

I. Allegro assai e lusingando

Sonata form. The chords played fortissimo in the exposition create a brilliant impression. A gently played second theme appears. In the development section, the first theme and a transformed second theme are developed, leading to the recapitulation.

II. Andantino

Binary form. A lullaby-like melody reminiscent of a Russian folk song is gently sung. This movement has a meditative atmosphere.

III. Presto

Although in sonata form, it is extremely small in scale. Phrases from the first theme are heard throughout. A tarantella-like second theme, followed by a short transition, leads to the development section. Here, the first theme is primarily developed, progressing to the recapitulation and then to the coda.