Description
Marked Presto alla tedesca, "fast, in the German manner," this movement opens Sonata No. 25, written in 1809. Like Sonata No. 24 from the same year, it is a small-scale sonata; it has three movements and is relatively approachable technically, and it is affectionately known by the nickname "Cuckoo."
It is in G major and 3/4 time. True to its marking Presto alla tedesca (in the manner of a German dance), a light, dance-like rhythm runs throughout. It is in sonata form, and in the development the left hand repeatedly crosses over the right, a passage that is fun to watch as well as hear. It lasts about two and a half minutes yet holds 2,075 notes, around fourteen per second, and its range from G1 to A6 fits on a 76-key keyboard.
Rated intermediate, its fast tempo demands nimble fingerwork. In the hand crossings, prepare the arm movement early so that the downbeats stay in place. Check the crossing movements with the hand colours and repeat that passage with the A-B loop at a reduced speed to get a feel for the distance of the leaps. Keep the lightness of the dance in three to the very end.
Piano sonatas representative of the Classical and Romantic eras, including Beethoven's early works — substantial multi-movement pieces throughout.
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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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