If you're not sure what sonata means, or would like some interesting background, check out "What is a Sonata?"

Introduction

Ludwig van Beethoven's famous Moonlight Sonata was originally marked "Quasi una fantasia", meaning "Like a fantasy". A fantasia is a composition in the style of an improvisation, with loose structure and unfiltered passion. Though the sonata's opening movement follows a loose sonata form, it uniquely prioritizes beauty and emotionality over structure. The equally apt title of "Moonlight Sonata" was given by a music critic years after Beethoven's death.

The first movement is a slow and abstract piece, contradicting the usual energy of a sonata's first movement. Its fame comes down to its constant novelty and unapologetic sentimentality.

The second movement is a fun, jumpy dance, but surprisingly has an indication to begin without pause after the first movement. Its structure is very classical, featuring a jovial scherzo, a lax trio, and a final return to the beginning (called scherzo de capo).

The explosive third movement matches the first in innovation and fame. It uses a more traditional sonata form, but makes no compromise of structural or thematic complexity. There are no fewer than five unique themes, all developed masterfully within the framework of the sonata form.

Terms

• Neapolitan sixth: A specific type of chord made of notes not in the current key, making a surprising tension
• Harmonic rhythm: The speed at which harmonies change, basically deciding the pace of the piece
• Pedal: A single note repeated or held, usually in the bass, reinforcing a sense of tension or resolution
• Alberti bass: A classical accompaniment where the bass plays chord notes in a repetitive pattern
• Theme group: A set of musical ideas that define a single section of a sonata form
• Diminished chord: A very dissonant and unstable chord that leads strongly to a resolution

Listening Guide