Sonata No. 25 (2nd Movement: Andante)

History

Beethoven-Haus dates the parent G-major sonata to 1809. The first-edition bibliography records London and Leipzig publication branches in 1810. The work has three movements; this entry presents one of them while retaining the shared sonata history.

Sources

• beethoven.de
• bu.edu

What to listen for

1. 1

   A broad melody over a steady pulse

   Paired upper notes move in longer values over repeated lower eighth-note groups. Hear three broad pulses per full bar, keeping the accompaniment even and the melody connected.

2. 2

   Recognise the opening shape

   The first upper gesture returns, then its answering phrase changes direction. Keep the familiar phrase shape while listening to the different chord colours in the answer.

3. 3

   A rising phrase becomes more active

   The upper paired notes climb, then shorter connected notes lead onward. Keep the three-pulse framework clear while the melody uses more frequent attacks.

4. 4

   A related phrase leads toward a close

   The rising gesture returns before settling into a longer note. Keep its arrival connected and distinct from the new material that follows.

How to practise it

Keep the slower paired melody above an even compound support.

1. Count the three larger pulses while practising the upper contour.
2. Practise the lower groups at a quiet steady volume.
3. Connect the stated opening gestures at a comfortable tempo, keeping their distinct releases.

How hard is it

About this piece

Collection

Sonata journeys

Licence

Public Domain

Source

mutopiaproject.org

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