Ludwig Van Beethoven was born
Beginning of the composer’s lifetime.
About this piece
Beethoven's Piano Sonata No. 8 in C minor, Op. 13, commonly known as Sonata Pathétique, was written when the composer was 27 years old. It has remained one of his most celebrated compositions. Although commonly thought to be one of the few works to be named by the composer himself, it was actually named Grande Sonate Pathétique (to Beethoven's liking) by the publisher, who was impressed by the sonata's tragic sonorities.
The last movement of the sonata is a Rondo which includes a brief coda. The three rondo episodes are in E♭ major, A♭ major, and C major. The common use of sforzando creates a forceful effect.
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Level guide
Equivalent to RCM diploma level
This piece is beyond all ABRSM levels
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End of the composer’s lifetime.
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