Chopin's first sonata, composed under the tutelage of his teacher Józef Elsner, who was also the director of the Warsaw Conservatory. It is said to have been written for the purpose of mastering form, and immature compositional techniques are evident throughout. Alternatively, it might be seen as the unfortunate outcome of an attempt to forcibly constrain a genius, who already possessed a unique musical world, within conventional rules and norms. In later years, Elsner acknowledged Chopin's genius and consequently ceased imposing his own musical perspectives in his composition instruction. Chopin himself recognized the immaturity of this work, and it is recounted that after his fame was established, when a publisher inquired about its publication, Chopin expressed his displeasure.

Even today, performances of this work remain infrequent.

Movements

• First Movement: Allegro maestoso, 2/2 time, Sonata form
• Second Movement: Minuet, 3/4 time, Ternary form
• Third Movement: Larghetto, 5/4 time
• Fourth Movement: Finale, 2/2 time, Rondo form