Moonlight Sonata – Sonata in the Manner of a Fantasy
Ludwig van Beethoven was a German Classical composer (1770 – 1850) and his compositions demonstrate characteristics of both the Classical and Romantic era. In a previous post I highlighted Beethoven’s Ode to Joy from his 9th Symphony. However Beethoven was famous for more than just the nine symphonies that he wrote.
In 1801 he completed the Piano Sonata No. 14 in C# minor “Quasi una fantasia” Opus 27, No. 2. He dedicated this sonata to his pupil, Countess, Guilietta Guicciardi. We know this well-known composition by another title – The Moonlight Sonata. This alternate title was given five years after his death by German music critic and poet Ludwig Rellstab. He remarked that the first movement portrayed the impression of moonlight shining upon Lake Lucerne in Switzerland. Within ten years publications were entitled Moonlight Sonata in both German and English and after a few years the sonata was known universally by that name.
The sonata has three movements: I. Adagio sostenuto (slow) (in C# minor). This movement is known for the slow moving arpeggios (broken chords) that seem to be improvised and exploring different harmonies and chord progressions possible.
II. Allegretto (a little faster) (transitions to D-Flat Major). This movement is a contrast not only in character due to the Major key being introduced but also due to the consistent soft dynamic (or piano) with a few sforzandos (sudden crescendos or loud instances) used.
III. Presto agitato (very fast) (returns to C# minor). This movement is loud (or forte) and is more technically challenging with difficult passages than the first two movements.
The Moonlight Sonata has been inspirational to listeners since its debut in 1801. Unlike other sonatas written during the same time period, it slowly increases in tempo with each movement. The first movement has been included in a video recording of the children’s book “The Bear and the Piano”. This lovely story demonstrates how practising can help accomplish ones’ dreams but should not be at the expense of friendship and family. The use of the first movement perfectly portrays the experiences that the bear undergoes throughout the story.
I will leave a final tribute to the Moonlight Sonata and the Dutch Post-Impressionist artist Vincent Van Gogh. Once again the first movement of the sonata is used to create an impression of contemplation and reflection while watching the creation of Van Gogh masterpiece – A Starry Night.