The exact year of composition is unknown, but it is known to have been composed before 1780, as it was published in Vienna in that year as "Sonata Collection Vol. 1," consisting of works from Hob. XVI/35-39. This sonata collection is dedicated to the Auenbrugger sisters. It consists of three movements.

First Movement

The first movement is in C-sharp minor, in 4/4 time, marked Moderato. It begins with a forte (f) theme in unison in both hands, contrasted by piano (p) in the second measure. A characteristic feature throughout the movement is the frequent use of ornaments such as trills. Furthermore, fermatas are observed midway through the development section (from m. 34) and the recapitulation (from m. 65). In the recapitulation, unlike the exposition, there are passages where a reverse-skip rhythm is distinctively employed.

Second Movement

The second movement is an Allegro con brio Scherzando, written in A major. It is in rondo form. It is characterized by lively rhythms, with effective insertions of unison passages. Moreover, each time the rondo theme reappears, it is varied with finer rhythms, increasing in vivacity towards the end of the piece.

Third Movement

The third movement is a Moderato Minuet. It is written in C-sharp minor. A chorale-like trio contrasts with the main theme, which is characterized by an ascending melodic figure. This trio is written in C-sharp major, the parallel major key.