Grand Sonate Pathétique Op. 13, II Adagio cantabile

Ludwig van Beethoven (1770 – 1827) is one of the most recognizable names in the history of Western music. He was a prodigious talent from an early age, and quickly earned a reputation as a virtuoso pianist and skilled composer. His Piano Sonata No. 8 in C minor, Op. 13 was composed in 1799, at 27 years old towards the end of his compositional early period. The title Grade sonate pathétique was applied by his publisher – with Beethoven’s approval – and to many listeners reflects the tragic and melancholy moods expressed in the music. The second movement, a deeply expressive Adagio cantabile is in rondo form, presenting its famous melody three times with increasing textural richness, separated by two intervening episodes in the relative and parallel minor keys.