Description
The finale of Op. 49 No. 2, marked Tempo di Menuetto. Its theme is well known from elsewhere: Beethoven reused it a few years later for the minuet movement of the Septet, Op. 20, which became one of the great popular successes of his career and carried the same tune into the chamber repertoire.
In G major and triple time, the theme returns in rondo fashion with light episodes set between its appearances. It is cast in balanced eight-bar phrases and is easy to remember on first hearing. The accompaniment stays discreet throughout, leaving the melody in front.
The level is suitable for beginners, but playing the theme identically on each return makes the movement monotonous. Varying the dynamics and colour slightly each time, and drawing a clear line between theme and episode, is what shapes the piece. Concentrating on the weight of the triple metre and on a singing legato in the melody brings out the poise of the dance.
Piano sonatas representative of the Classical and Romantic eras, including Beethoven's early works — substantial multi-movement pieces throughout.
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Sheet music provided by Mutopia Project
What this piece teaches
The second movement, Tempo di Menuetto, of Beethoven's Sonata Op. 49 No. 2: a graceful theme that keeps returning, rondo-fashion.
How to practise it
- Each time the theme returns, play it with the same character.
- The episodes between its appearances are different in mood. Loop them separately and make the difference heard.
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.
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