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 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.
From Symphony No. 5 in C minor, Op. 67 “Fate,” First MovementLudwig van Beethoven
Beethoven’s great work, Symphony No.
5.
This time, we’re introducing a piano arrangement that uses the famous “Fate motif” from the opening—yes, the well-known “da-da-da-DAAAN.” Since it’s originally a symphony, the difficulty can vary widely depending on the piano arrangement, and it differs from score to score.
Some versions are for advanced players, while others are easy and suitable for beginners.
Although there are a few fast passages, it’s a piece that beginners and even children can approach comfortably.
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.
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.
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.