Pick up Beethoven’s famous and representative works!
Ludwig van Beethoven created innovative music that served as a bridge from the Classical to the Romantic era, leaving a profound influence on later generations.
His music is passionate yet rich in beautiful melodies, and it conveys a sense of essential depth, as if pursuing things to their very core.
There are many masterpieces that everyone has heard at least once, such as “Fate” (Symphony No.
5) and “Für Elise.”
In this article, we’ve picked out some of Beethoven’s famous and representative works.
Why not immerse yourself in the music of Beethoven, one of the great composers?
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[Beethoven] A selection of famous and representative works! (211–220)
Fidelio OvertureLudwig van Beethoven
Beethoven’s only opera, familiar to many, is Fidelio, Op.
72.
In fact, its original title was Leonore, and that name appears on Overtures No.
1, No.
2, and No.
3.
Incidentally, the story is about Leonore, a woman who disguises herself as a man under the name “Fidelio” to infiltrate a prison and rescue her husband, who is being held as a political prisoner.
March in C major “Tattoo (Zapfenstreich)” for Military Band, WoO 20.Ludwig van Beethoven
This is a military march known as the March in C major “Zapfenstreich” (often recognized as “Return to Quarters Bugle Call”), performed by wind ensembles around the world.
Composed in 1809.
Please enjoy the performance by the Tokyo Kosei Wind Orchestra, renowned among wind bands worldwide for their polished and often pop-leaning arrangements.
Piano Concerto No. 5 in E-flat major, Op. 73 “Emperor”Ludwig van Beethoven
One of the works composed during Beethoven’s golden period, often called his “forest of masterpieces.” Because of the title “Emperor,” many people assume it was dedicated to Napoleon, fitting the era, but in fact the nickname spread only after Beethoven’s death, inspired by its bold and majestic musical character.
At the time of composition, Vienna—where Beethoven lived—was under attack by the French army, and the Austrian emperor, who should have led the defense, was effectively in evacuation that could be seen as fleeing the front.
The “Emperor” naming appears to be based on image alone.
[Beethoven] Picking Up Masterpieces and Signature Works! (221–230)
Symphony No. 6 in F major, Op. 68 “Pastoral”Ludwig van Beethoven
The German master Ludwig van Beethoven is a composer who represents the transitional period from the Classical to the Romantic era.
His innovative works had a profound influence on later musicians.
Symphony No.
6 in F major, Op.
68 “Pastoral,” is a gem in which Beethoven expresses his love of nature through music.
It beautifully portrays his longing for pastoral landscapes and the joy and serenity found there.
Highlights include meticulous instrumentation, such as the depiction of birdsong and a storm.
It’s a recommended piece when you want to be soothed by the beauty of nature or relax and immerse yourself in music.
32 Variations in C minor, WoO 80, on an Original ThemeLudwig van Beethoven
Composed by Ludwig van Beethoven in 1806, the 32 Variations in C minor on an Original Theme, WoO 80, is a solo piano work consisting of a simple eight-bar theme followed by 32 variations.
Each variation follows the theme’s harmonic pattern while incorporating a wide range of musical elements—such as staccato, arpeggios, chromatic passages, and contrapuntal writing—challenging the performer’s technique.
Rich in emotional contrasts and expressivity, the piece is also popular among piano students as a comprehensive study resource for mastering diverse playing techniques.
15 Variations and Fugue on an Original Theme, Op. 35 ‘Eroica Variations’Ludwig van Beethoven
Ludwig van Beethoven’s 1802 work, “15 Variations and a Fugue on an Original Theme, Op.
35 (‘Eroica Variations’).” It is a solo piano piece consisting of four introductions and a theme, 15 variations, and a coda, all based on the theme later used in the finale of his Symphony No.
3, “Eroica,” composed the following year.
Strikingly, it departs from the conventional variation form with a unique design that begins not with the theme itself but with its bass line.
After 15 diverse variations, Beethoven places a fugue as the finale and even adds two further variations—an innovative touch.
Why not perform or listen to it while sensing the evolution of one of Beethoven’s favorite themes?
Symphony No. 9, Fourth Movement “Ode to Joy”Ludwig van Beethoven
This is a commercial for Big Boy, a family restaurant known for its signature hamburg steaks and steaks.
It highlights their commitment to enhancing flavor by cooking the meat over an open flame.
The sizzling visuals and sounds are incredibly appetizing.
Coupled with the “Ode to Joy” playing in the background, the spot feels both grand and luxurious.
In conclusion
We’ve introduced some of Beethoven’s famous and representative works.
Even if you’re not very familiar with classical music, I imagine there were pieces you’ve heard somewhere at least once.
I hope this conveyed the enduring appeal of Beethoven, who continues to be loved today.
There are many other wonderful pieces as well, so please give them a listen!