Your most favorite Beethoven sonata?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around participants sharing their favorite Beethoven sonatas, exploring personal preferences, and debating the significance of various works. The scope includes opinions on specific sonatas, interpretations, and recordings, as well as some confusion regarding terminology related to sonatas and concertos.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Debate/contested
  • Meta-discussion

Main Points Raised

  • Some participants express a preference for the "Emperor" concerto, despite it not being a sonata, indicating a lack of familiarity with Beethoven's works.
  • Multiple participants favor the "Appassionata" (Piano Sonata No. 23), highlighting its emotional depth and historical context.
  • Others mention the "Moonlight Sonata" (Piano Sonata No. 14) as a favorite, noting its popularity and appeal.
  • Some participants discuss the "Hammerklavier" (Piano Sonata No. 29) for its technical complexity and significance in Beethoven's oeuvre.
  • There is a debate about the prominence of Beethoven's piano sonatas compared to his works for other instruments, with some asserting that the piano sonatas are more widely recognized.
  • Participants share their experiences with various recordings of Beethoven's works, discussing different interpretations and performances.
  • Confusion arises regarding the definition of "sonata," with some participants clarifying that it typically refers to piano sonatas in the context of Beethoven.
  • Some express a preference for specific recordings and performers, indicating a subjective approach to appreciating Beethoven's music.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants generally express individual preferences without reaching a consensus on a single favorite sonata. There are competing views on the significance of various works and the definition of "sonata," leading to an unresolved discussion.

Contextual Notes

Some participants exhibit uncertainty about the terminology used in the discussion, particularly regarding the distinction between sonatas and concertos. Additionally, there are references to personal experiences with recordings, which may influence opinions but are not universally shared.

Who May Find This Useful

Readers interested in classical music, particularly Beethoven's works, may find this discussion valuable for exploring diverse opinions and interpretations of his sonatas.

  • #31
marlon said:
Good Point.

That's one of the differences between Beethoven and Mozart for example. Mozart wrote famous masterpieces in practically every musical "discipline".

For example, what about opera ? Beethoven wrote Fidelio, but apart from the astonishing ouverture, this piece is really not that good. Especially if you compare it's quality to other works.

Beethoven wrote just one violin concerto, but it is a real masterpiece and very famous (especially the third movement, which is sometimes used in commercials).

Let us not forget that this does NOT mean Mozart is a greater composer than beethoven by any means. I would put Beethoven and Mozart on par, with Beethovens piano sonatas and concertos matching Mozarts opera.

(The only composer who I would put on top of these 2 giants is Bach, but that's another topic).
 
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  • #32
marlon - Have you found Arrau's appassionata recording yet, the one where you can hear birds singing in the background? :confused: :biggrin:
 

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