Description
Beethoven composed this set of variations on a theme by Count Waldstein, a friend and patron from his Bonn years. Built on an approachable theme typical of his early works, the variations range from decorative to virtuosic in character. Its dense, fast-moving passages call for finger independence and stamina, making it a demanding piece for advanced players.
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 →