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 (41–50)
Piano Sonata No. 8 “Pathétique,” 3rd movementLudwig van Beethoven
A piece with a powerful, passionate character and an imposing aura that is truly captivating.
From its striking opening, the gripping melody recurs throughout, alternating between tension and release to naturally draw listeners into its musical world.
Highly acclaimed since its publication in 1799 and still performed worldwide today, the work stands out for its dynamic expressiveness and rich shifts in tone color.
It has frequently appeared in TV shows and films, and its influence is such that Billy Joel even quoted its melody in “This Night.” Designed to showcase the piano’s full appeal, it’s an ideal choice for ambitious performers looking to refine rapid passages and expressive nuance.
[Beethoven] Pick Up His Masterpieces and Signature Works! (51–60)
Sonata No. 12 in A-flat major, Op. 26 “Funeral March”Ludwig van Beethoven
Beethoven’s masterpiece, Sonata No.
12 in A-flat major, Op.
26 “Funeral March.” It’s not as difficult as the “Pastoral,” but for beginners it can be challenging—overall it’s about an intermediate-level work.
That said, the difficulty varies by movement: the first and fourth movements are approachable for new intermediate players.
The second movement is difficult and requires substantial practice.
Fast arpeggios and passages appear in every movement, so you’ll also need exercises to improve finger agility.
Piano Sonata No. 15 “Pastoral”Ludwig van Beethoven
Piano Sonata No.
15 “Pastoral.” Composed by Beethoven.
As bright and refreshing as its title suggests, this piece unfolds a pastoral landscape before your eyes.
Partway through, it turns quiet and a little wistful.
It’s a lovely work that lets you feel the seasons of the countryside.
Recommended for everyone from children to adults—perfect for listening with the whole family.
Please give it a listen.
Piano Sonata No. 20 in G majorLudwig van Beethoven
We present a piano piece composed by the great master of classical music, Beethoven, specifically for beginners.
Written around 1795, its first edition was titled “Deux Sonates Faciles” (Two Easy Sonatas), and it is characterized by a concise, approachable style in two movements.
The first movement features a dignified tonic chord and a triplet motive, while the second movement is notable for a graceful, minuet-like melody.
Although relatively easy to perform, the piece showcases Beethoven’s compositional technique and aesthetic sensibility.
It is an excellent choice for those who have just started learning the piano or are newly interested in classical music.
With its bright, warm atmosphere, it is sure to captivate audiences at recitals.
Symphony No. 5 in C minor, Op. 67 “Fate”Ludwig van Beethoven
When you hear Beethoven’s “Fate,” doesn’t everyone think of that famous opening “da-da-da-dum”? It’s said that the title “Fate” comes from Beethoven’s remark about the opening motif—reported by his pupil Schindler—that “Thus fate knocks at the door.” This motif is also called the “fate motif,” and it appears throughout the piece.
Try listening for it as you go.
Christ on the Mount of OlivesLudwig van Beethoven
This is an oratorio by Germany’s universally known musical titan, Ludwig van Beethoven.
Yet it is rarely performed and remains little known.
The work portrays Christ’s prayer on the Mount of Olives and his subsequent arrest; it was composed in 1803 and premiered in Vienna.
At the same concert of Beethoven’s own works, what would later become his landmark pieces—the First and Second Symphonies and the Third Piano Concerto—also received their premieres.
At the time, however, it was this oratorio that achieved success.
When it was revived in 1825, Beethoven’s conversation books note that each revival played to full houses, indicating how warmly it was received by contemporary audiences.
It is an oratorio I recommend, offering insight into Beethoven’s tastes and the trends among listeners of his day.
Piano Sonata No. 12 in A-flat major, Op. 26 “Funeral March”Ludwig van Beethoven
Beethoven’s masterpiece, Sonata No.
12 in A-flat major, Op.
26 “Funeral March.” It’s not as difficult as the “Pastoral,” but for beginners it can be challenging—overall it’s about an intermediate-level work.
That said, the difficulty varies by movement: the first and fourth movements are approachable for new intermediate players.
The second movement is difficult and requires substantial practice.
Fast arpeggios and passages appear in every movement, so you’ll also need exercises to improve finger agility.