This Rondo is the last movement from Sonata in E, opus 14, No.1 for piano by Ludwig Van Beethoven. It is an effervescent piece full of excitement, drama and opportunities to show off technique, hence it’s inclusion in the ABRSM grade 8 syllabus for 2017/2018. This piece uses a lot of broken chord and scale patterns, with interest created by varying rhythms all tied together with a consistent meter.
A rondo is a form of composition where a principle theme is stated at the beginning, followed by a different theme, followed by a repeat of the main theme, followed by another different theme and so on. The repetitions of the main theme are alternated with something different each time. If a rondo is used in a sonata, it is usually the last movement, as in this example.
I recorded this piece in July 2016 using just an iPad. Later recordings include experimentation with higher quality sound recording equipment.
You might also like:
Heller Prelude in C Sharp Minor,
Chopin Prelude in E Minor No. 4,
More Beethoven: Fur Elise and “Moonlight” Sonata first movement.
Read my blog to find out Why I Love Beethoven: Expressive Depth, Classical Elegance, and Enduring Charm
