Description
Composed in 1802, Op.34 was innovative for its time in that each variation is set in a different key rather than staying in the tonic. Although the theme itself is plain in character, the shifting moods and tonalities of each variation offer the listener a striking variety of color while demanding strong tonal awareness from the performer.
Works written in theme-and-variations form, where a single melody is transformed in many different ways.
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 →