Description
This is the second movement of Piano Sonata No. 27, Op. 90, composed in 1814, and the finale of the sonata. Beethoven marked it in German rather than Italian, instructing the performer to play "not too fast and very songfully." It comes from the turning point between his middle and late periods, and its inward lyricism stands out.
It is in E major and 2/4 time. Written in rondo form, its gentle, contented theme returns repeatedly in varied guises. Ending in E major after the E minor first movement, the sonata as a whole moves toward a quiet brightness. At about eight minutes it is fairly long, with 4,014 notes, and its range runs from F-sharp 1 to A6.
Rated intermediate, it requires, beyond technique, the ability to shape a singing melody with care. To keep each return of the theme from sounding the same, listen to how the accompaniment changes around it. Take out each return of the theme with the A-B loop and, at a reduced playback speed, check the balance between melody and accompaniment with the hand colours.
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
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 →