Beethoven The 'Moonlight' and other Sonatas, Op. 27 and Op. 31 [Paperback]

This 1999 book is a comprehensive introduction to Beethoven's most popular piano sonata, and Opp. 27 and 31.Even in Beethoven's day everyone was talking about the 'Moonlight' Sonata. This is a comprehensive introduction to Beethoven's most popular piano sonata, together with the four other sonatas in Opp. 27 and 31. Aimed at pianists, students and music lovers, it gives an account of the sonatas' historical background, their changing performance styles, and offers an accessible critical introduction to the music.Even in Beethoven's day everyone was talking about the 'Moonlight' Sonata. This is a comprehensive introduction to Beethoven's most popular piano sonata, together with the four other sonatas in Opp. 27 and 31. Aimed at pianists, students and music lovers, it gives an account of the sonatas' historical background, their changing performance styles, and offers an accessible critical introduction to the music.Even in Beethoven's day everyone was talking about the Moonlight Sonata. This is a comprehensive introduction to Beethoven's most popular piano sonata, together with the four other sonatas in Op. 27 and Op. 31. Aimed at pianists, students and music lovers, it gives an account of the sonatas' historical background, their changing performance styles, and offers an accessible critical introduction to the music.Preface; Acknowledgements; 1. Keyboard culture; 2. Beethoven in 18002; 3. Composition and reception; 4. 'Quasi una fantasia?'; 5. The design of the Op. 27 sonatas; 6. The design of the Op. 31 sonatas; Notes; Select bibliography; Index.