Description
The finale of Sonata No. 25 incorporates a figure said to imitate a cuckoo's call, the motif that gives the whole sonata its popular nickname. Set at a brisk Vivace tempo, it maintains a playful, bright mood throughout, closing the work in a compact and cheerful span. Despite lasting under two minutes, it packs in a surprising number of notes, requiring lightness to be maintained at speed.
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.
View all works by Beethoven →