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)
Six Ecossaises, WoO 83Ludwig van Beethoven
Beethoven’s masterpiece “Six Ecossaises, WoO 83,” which incorporates the Scottish dance ecossaise.
Known as a beginner-friendly work, it is often played after “Für Elise” and the first movement of the “Moonlight” Sonata.
The key point of this piece lies in its brisk tempo.
Without solid fundamentals, the sound can become unbalanced, so be mindful of the tempo indications and dynamic contrasts.
With expressive playing, it can sound strikingly impressive—do give it a try.
Seven Bagatelles, Op. 33 No. 1Ludwig van Beethoven
Beethoven’s masterpiece, Seven Bagatelles Op.
33 No.
1.
Although it contains some slightly challenging passages because it was originally conceived as a candidate movement for a piano sonata, overall it has been shaped into a simple piece that beginners can approach with ease.
Written in E-flat major, the work maintains a generally relaxed tempo, allowing ample time before each subsequent phrase.
While it is somewhat minor within Beethoven’s oeuvre, many pianists perform it, so do consider using their interpretations as references.
[Beethoven] A Selection of Gem-like Masterpieces Easy to Play on Piano (31–40)
Sonatina No. 6, Movement I in G majorLudwig van Beethoven
The piece known as Sonatina No.
6, said to have been composed by Beethoven in his youth.
This time, we’ve selected the first movement.
It’s a lively work that requires a certain level of finger dexterity, but in reality it’s not particularly difficult; if you use slurs and staccatos appropriately, even beginners can play it without trouble.
If anything, memorization is the harder part.
Be sure to study the score carefully and practice while deepening your understanding.
Für EliseLudwig van Beethoven
Beethoven’s piece Für Elise is frequently performed at recitals—a famous work that almost everyone has heard at least once.
Among Beethoven’s compositions, it’s known as beginner-friendly.
The piece is in rondo form, and the 32nd notes in the right hand of the B section are a tricky spot.
It also contains many contrasts—such as shifts from minor to major and from legato to light, brisk phrases—making it ideal for developing expressive skills.
It’s a piece that really stands out on stage.
Try to play with a relaxed, flexible wrist.
Turkish MarchLudwig van Beethoven
How about Beethoven’s march with its delightfully exotic rhythm? This piece was presented in February 1812 as part of the incidental music for Die Ruinen von Athen.
Its structure—quiet at the beginning, gradually growing louder, then fading away again—seems to depict a marching band’s parade approaching from afar, passing by, and receding into the distance.
It’s also famous for having been used as the theme song of a Mexican television program.
Brimming with energy and easy to imagine a story to, it’s perfect for children who want to develop their expressive abilities.
The key to a compelling performance is how richly one can portray the parade scene through dynamics.
Minuet in CLudwig van Beethoven
A piece everyone has heard at least once: “Minuet in G.” While the melody is famous, the title isn’t widely known by the general public.
Written in 3/4 time, it has no specific tempo marking, but it’s commonly performed at a lively pace.
It follows an A-A-B-A form, so once you can play the A section, you’ve essentially mastered half the piece.
Since the B section differs greatly in character from the A section, aim for a natural transition when moving between them.
Farewell, pianoLudwig van Beethoven
The piece said to be Beethoven’s last work, Farewell to the Piano.
There’s a theory that it was actually invented by its publisher, Boosey & Co., but for now I’ll introduce it as a Beethoven composition.
Its difficulty is A—easy enough for beginners to play.
While there are a few tricky spots in the main melody, with repeated practice you should be able to master it quickly.
If you’ve just started learning, be sure to check it out.