Sonata n°14 Op. 27 - Moonlight - 2nd movement

About this work

Between the famous Adagio and the blazing finale, Beethoven places a brief Allegretto. It is sometimes forgotten, rather unfairly: this short movement in D-flat major is the hinge of the whole sonata. It sets the body in motion again without yet releasing the storm.

The three-beat rhythm and short phrases give it the air of a dance. The central section darkens the colour slightly, then the opening returns. It is neither an interval nor a sentimental miniature. Its role is to create a clear breath between two movements dominated by C-sharp minor, with just enough grace to make the contrast work.

Keep the pulse supple and let the chords spring without becoming dry or clipped. Phrase endings need space, but not a halt at every comma. In the central section, support the change of character without making the sound heavier. Played too slowly, the Allegretto sags; too quickly, it loses its elegance. Seek a light step, not a moonlight stroll — a nickname, after all, that Beethoven did not choose.


What the document contains

The complete second movement, for piano.
One 2-page PDF.
One separate MIDI file.

The document historically comes from the Mutopia project. The notices it contains remain the reference for reuse.