Rubinstein (1829-1894) was a leading Russian pianist. Born to Polish-Jewish and German-Jewish parents, Rubinstein is often positioned in music history as the antithesis of "The Five." Nevertheless, he was not merely a performer, primarily a pianist, but contributed broadly to the musical landscape of Russia, including the founding of the Saint Petersburg Conservatory, Russia's first professional music education institution, and the establishment of the Russian Musical Society.

Rubinstein composed four piano sonatas. This Third Sonata is believed to have been completed by 1855 at the latest, during his concert tour in Europe. It is presumed to have been written when he was 24-25 years old (1853-1854). Notably, Rubinstein himself later undertook revisions primarily concerning tempo markings.

First Movement

The first movement is in F major, marked Allegro risoluto e con fuoco, and written in 3/4 time. It takes the form of a sonata. The first theme is characterized by its dotted rhythms. The second theme is first presented in A-flat major, a major third above the tonic, and exhibits a chorale-like character. In the development section, the first theme is primarily treated.

Second Movement

The second movement is in A minor, marked Con moto, and written in 2/4 time. It takes the form of a three-part (ternary) form. The tempo marking for this movement before revision was Allegretto con moto. It possesses the character of a scherzo movement, effectively employing the technique of contrasting staccato and legato.

Third Movement

The third movement is in C major, marked Moderato assai, and written in 3/4 time. It is a slow movement that takes the form of a kind of rondo. The tempo marking for this movement before revision was Andante.

Fourth Movement

The fourth movement is in F minor, marked Moderato, and written in 2/2 time. It takes the form of a sonata without a development section. The tempo marking for this movement before revision was Allegro vivace. The first theme, with its tarantella character, and the second theme, characterized by repeated chords, are presented. The piece concludes brightly by presenting the first theme in the parallel major, F major.