(Ger. G moll). This is a key of earnest meditation. Like G major, its TONIC and DOMINANT are represented by two open strings on every instrument of the string family. As a relative key of B-flat major, it provides for natural MODULATIONS (movements from key to key), especially for woodwind and brass instruments.
One of the greatest symphonies IN G MINOR IS WOLFGANG AMADEUS MOZART'S Symphony No. 40, in which the key is seldom abandoned in the lively first movement, the minuet, and the finale. Among FRANZ JOSEPH HAYDN'S symphonies, La poule (The Hen) is in G minor.
There are any number of solo pieces for violin and other instruments in the key of G minor, including MAX BRUCH'S Violin Concerto.
The key also lies well for the piano. Among notable examples are the Piano Concerto by ANTONÍN DVOŘÁK and the popular Second Piano Concerto by CAMILLE SAINTSAËNS.
