Piano Sonata No.8 "Pathétique" Op.13 - I. Grave - Allegro di molto e con brio
Ludwig van Beethoven (1799)
Description
The first movement of the Pathétique opens with a weighty Grave introduction that casts a dark shadow over the whole work before the fiery Allegro di molto bursts forth. Motifs from the introduction resurface within the main section, showing off Beethoven's dramatic structural craftsmanship across one of his longest and most celebrated early movements, running well past six minutes.
Piano sonatas representative of the Classical and Romantic eras, including Beethoven's early works — substantial multi-movement pieces throughout.
Sheet Music
Sheet music provided by Mutopia Project
About the Composer
Ludwig van Beethoven (1770-1827)
Born in Bonn and active in Vienna, Ludwig van Beethoven is among the towering figures in music history, bridging the Classical and Romantic eras. Despite losing his hearing in later life, he continued composing, pursuing innovative forms and intense emotional expression in his symphonies and piano sonatas. His beloved piano piece "Fur Elise" and his 32 piano sonatas remain widely performed. This site features 96 of his works, including piano concertos and piano trios.
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