Crossword Genius

Devil almost holding on for musical work (6)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

sonata

I'm a little stuck... Click here to teach me more about this clue!

'musical work' is the definition.
(I've seen this before)

'devil almost holding on' is the wordplay.
I cannot quite see how this works, but
'on' could be 'at' (I've seen this in other clues) and 'at' is present in the answer.
This explanation may well be incorrect...

'for' is the link.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for sonata that I've seen before include "Musical composition with three or more contrasting movements" , "See 6" , "Solo instrumental composition" , "Classical composition" , "Work for soloist" .)

I've seen this clue in The Sun.
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