Beethoven: A selection of gem-like masterpieces that are easy to play on the piano
Ludwig van Beethoven, one of the greatest composers in the history of music.
Known for leaving masterpieces in a wide range of forms—including 32 piano sonatas, symphonies, chamber music, opera, and sacred music—he remains one of the most beloved classical composers worldwide more than 250 years after his birth.
This time, we’ve selected relatively easy pieces among Beethoven’s works that are more approachable to play on the piano.
We’ve chosen not only pieces originally written for solo piano but also a broad selection including arrangements of symphonies, so please find the one that suits you best and give it a try!
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[Beethoven] A Selection of Gemlike Masterpieces That Are Easy to Play on Piano (21–30)
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.
I love you.Ludwig van Beethoven
Beethoven’s piece Ich liebe dich, also known as Tender Love, is a well-known solo song with piano accompaniment, commonly referred to as a German Lied, and is occasionally performed at piano recitals.
In terms of difficulty, it is very easy among Beethoven’s works, so even young children can complete it comfortably with practice.
The section where it modulates from G major to C major features the most beautiful melody, so when performing, pay attention to a gentle touch and clear contrasts.
Piano Sonata No. 15, Op. 28 “Pastoral,” Movement IILudwig van Beethoven
Beethoven’s famous work Piano Sonata No.
15, Op.
28 “Pastoral,” Second Movement.
Among the pieces introduced here, this one is particularly challenging; while it still falls within the intermediate level, it belongs to the upper tier of intermediate.
In practical terms, if you can play “Farewell to the Piano” (Chopin’s “Tristesse”/Etude Op.
10 No.
3), you should be able to tackle this piece without issue.
In particular, the accompaniment that evokes sustained low tones of wind instruments requires a fair amount of stamina.
Its beautiful melody, which conjures images of the countryside, sounds wonderful in recitals, so do give it a try.
Piano Sonata No. 8 in C minor, Op. 13 “Pathétique,” Second MovementLudwig van Beethoven
Ludwig van Beethoven, a composer who represents the Classical era and created numerous masterpieces.
He is a great composer known to everyone.
Among his works, one of the most famous is the second movement of Piano Sonata No.
8 in C minor, Op.
13, “Pathétique.” Alongside the “Moonlight” Sonata, this piece is widely renowned, and as the title suggests, its sorrowful melody leaves a strong impression.
It has a weighty depth distinct from the Moonlight, so if you like heavier, more somber pieces, be sure to check it out.
Sonatina No. 6, Movement IILudwig van Beethoven
Beethoven’s famous piece “Sonatina No.
6, Movement II,” written in rondo form.
Like the first movement, its structure is somewhat complex, but the performance difficulty is low, and it is frequently played at piano recitals.
Although it isn’t particularly challenging overall, pedal control and staccato can be tricky spots.
Bringing out clear contrasts in the sound will make the piece shine.
The ending also calls for a degree of improvisatory feeling, making it recommended for beginners who want to enjoy learning the piano.
Piano Sonata No. 8 in C minor, Op. 13-2 “Pathétique,” Second MovementLudwig van Beethoven
Among Beethoven’s early piano sonatas, the second movement of the Piano Sonata No.
8 in C minor, Op.
13-2 “Pathétique,” is especially popular.
Its difficulty is around an intermediate level—advanced beginners can also take it on.
Because the piece is written in a four-voice texture reminiscent of a string quartet, you need to consider the balance among the parts.
The soprano line is the protagonist, so always practice with an awareness of the balance between the right and left hands.
It’s also recommended to practice the third movement before tackling the second movement.
Écossaises, WoO 23Ludwig van Beethoven
During Beethoven’s lifetime, duple-time dances were all the rage.
His Ecossaises, WoO 23, are performed in such duple meter and vividly reflect the cultural backdrop of the era.
The piece follows the form A–B–A–B′, C–C–D–B′, with the trickiest sections being parts A and C.
Part A begins on the offbeat, which can be challenging if you’re not used to it.
In part C, the right-hand slurs are crucial and call for a gentle touch.
Neither section is particularly difficult once you’re accustomed to them, making this a piece that’s approachable even for beginners.