Description
The two sonatas of Op. 49 are known as the "easy sonatas." Beethoven wrote them for teaching and never intended to publish them; his brother sold them off in 1805, which is why their opus number sits far later than their composition in the late 1790s. They are the standard example of the catalogue disagreeing with the chronology.
The first movement is in G major and cut time, in sonata form but on a reduced scale — the joints between exposition, development and recapitulation are clear enough to follow by ear. The light motion of the first subject and the singing line of the second alternate without ornamental cover.
It is a good movement for a first encounter with sonata form. There is almost nothing technically awkward in it, but playing three and a half minutes through does take stamina, and the left-hand accompaniment figures have to stay even. Shading the passage where the development darkens is enough to make the outline of the form audible as musical shape.
Piano sonatas representative of the Classical and Romantic eras, including Beethoven's early works — substantial multi-movement pieces throughout.
Browse all songs in Piano Sonatas →Sheet Music
Sheet music provided by Mutopia Project
What this piece teaches
The first movement of the same sonata, an Allegro in G major. Triplet figures and sharp contrasts of loud and soft are already Beethoven's own.
How to practise it
- Check the triplets are even by watching the spacing of the falling notes at 0.5x.
- Some dynamic changes are sudden. Check the markings in the score view and commit to the contrast.
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 includes "Für Elise," the two sonatas of Op. 49, movements from his early piano sonatas, and sets of variations.
View all works by Beethoven →