An orchestral piece, usually in several movements but on a smaller scale, and normally for smaller forces, than a symphony; a well-known example is Janá?ek's Sinfonietta (1926). The term is also used for a chamber orchestra, such as the London Sinfonietta (founded 1968).
The Sinfonietta (subtitled 'Military Sinfonietta' or 'Sokol Festival') is a late work for large orchestra by the Moravian/Czech composer Leoš Janáček. It is dedicated 'To the Czechoslovak Armed Forces' and Janáček said it was inteneded to express 'contemporary free man, his spiritual beauty and joy, his strength, courage and determination to fight for victory.' It was inspired by Janáček hearing a brass band, and being inspired to write some fanfares of his own. Andante con moto (The Town Hall, Brno)
The work is typical of Janáček's tight construction, the material of each movement deriving from the opening motif. It features several variants based on Janáček's original fanfares, and is scored only for brass. The second movement begins with a rapid ostinato from the wind, but later has a more lyrical episode. In the fourth movement, Janáček celebrates the newly liberated Czechoslovakia with a joyous trumpet fanfare. However, this quickly moves into a triumphant finale, the return of the opening fanfare decorated with swirling figures in the strings and wind.
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