RTV repertoire catalog

Beethoven - Sonata No. 2 - Op. 2, No. 2 - Fourth Movement

ID 4069 · Beethoven, Ludwig van · Piano · Level 7 · Points 148750

Public Domain · Download listed · Match: filters

The finale is a Grazioso rondo whose recurring theme begins with an upward sweep across the keyboard. Its graceful surface contains a wide variety of textures: a singing melody above broken chords, quick exchanges between the hands, sustained lines over rapid accompaniment, and a vigorous minor-key episode. Each return of the principal idea brings fresh decoration, so the familiar outline becomes increasingly elaborate as the movement proceeds. Measures 1–16 present the principal theme. Its opening arpeggio rises from the bass into a high right-hand note before the melody relaxes into longer values. The left hand continues in flowing eighth notes, providing a steady foundation beneath the spacious upper line. Turns, brief descending figures, and small exchanges between inner voices enliven the continuation. Beginning within measure 16, a quieter connecting episode introduces short groups of running notes that pass between the hands, then expands into longer right-hand passagework across a broader range. Measures 26–40 introduce the first contrasting theme and its continuation, reversing the balance of activity. The right hand sings in comparatively long notes while the left hand maintains rapid sixteenth-note figures. Accents, ornaments, and chromatic changes shape the melody above that persistent motion. The accompaniment also carries a bass line within its pattern, adding another layer to the texture. When the principal theme returns at measure 41, its opening ascent is already more decorated than before. The central minor-key episode, anticipated at the end of measure 56 and established in measure 57, changes the character sharply. The score marks a loud, detached texture, with climbing chromatic figures set against strong chords. The hands exchange the active line, and the repeated section uses first and second endings. Subsequent passages alternate forceful statements with unexpectedly quiet ones, including a legato version of the running figure. A long descent eventually clears the way for the principal theme to return in A major, now introduced by an especially extended upward flourish. The later pages revisit the flowing episode and lyrical contrasting theme before a substantial coda develops the rondo’s opening gesture further. Arpeggios pass through different registers, chordal accompaniment becomes fuller, and material from the more turbulent episode reappears. The final return restores the graceful character with triplet decoration and ornamental turns. After one last run passes downward through the hands, the movement closes quietly rather than with a grand final flourish. The reference video presents this movement on its own in Daniel Barenboim’s 2020 Beethoven sonata recording, released on Deutsche Grammophon. Listening to the separate track makes it easy to follow the recurring upward gesture and hear how differently it is dressed at each return. How to earn points for this piece: 1. Download or purchase the sheet music. 2. Practice the piece carefully. Watch the video example to make sure you are accurate. 3. Record yourself on video and upload it to YouTube. Perfection is not required. A few minor mistakes are okay. 4. Submit a link to your video here for evaluation. We will watch your performance and give you feedback. If you need more practice, we will let you know what to work on and provide additional practice suggestions. You may also submit your video publicly so other users can evaluate it. 5. If your performance is approved, your video will be accepted and you can collect your points.