I was inspired by 'Diagnosing genius: the life and death of Beethoven' by Martin Mai. I'm really into his dark way of composing, and haven't played anything of Beethoven yet. Also the video lectures of Jonathan Biss at the Curtis institute of music, gave me lots of help. So this month's classical piece will be the Piano Sonata No. 14 in C-sharp minor (Op. 27, No. 2) - written by Beethoven, also known as the Moonlight Sonata (completed in 1801). 

So the process took me 3 days to study the sheets and in the end it was recorded by Feau, who did a great job mixing and mastering the piece.

Moonlight Sonata, Piano Sonata No. 14 in C-sharp minor (Op. 27, No. 2) Beethoven - by New Hansen

Vivaldi Variation (arr. for piano from Concerto for Strings)

Bach, Beethoven, Brahms, Bryukhno, Debussy, Glinka, Hasselmans, Krylatov, Massenet, Mozart, Rachmaninoff, Saint-Saëns, Satie, Schubert, Tchaikovsky: Lullaby for Babies

Suite Bergamasque, L.75: III. Clair de Lune

Credit to Eric Christian https://youtu.be/unv_mWyPFbo?si=74NWAic8TBZYqeTe

Valse Sentimentale No.2 in G Minor - Eric Christian von Fricken

Tchaikovsky – The Swan Lake, Op.20 - Act II, No.14 Scene: Moderato

Taylor Swift - the fate of ophelia

Andrea Romano 
The Piano Sonata No. 14 in C♯ minor "Quasi una fantasia", op. 27, No. 2, by Ludwig van Beethoven

This is a piece that I sincerely hope is praised and played by many. I have worked for so much time on this and really hope that it is worth it. My love for music is beginning to hurt me and make me a little agitated because I am, in fact, starting to lose my hearing. No worries, though, nothing bad at this point. It is just a struggle to hear some pitches and frequencies. Let's hope that this doesn't affect my abilities to do what I am good at. 

Beethoven - Moonlight (FULL) -  Piano Sonata No. 14

Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky: Swan Lake Suite, Op. 20a - Waltz - Cleveland Institute of Music - 26 Sep 2010 

Me playing the tuba part in the student orchestra.

http://instantencore.com/music/details.aspx?PId=5076705

Tchaikovsky - Swan Lake Suite, Op. 20a - Scène- Cleveland Institute Of Music - 26 Sep 2010

Claude Debussy’s Clair de Lune is the third movement of his Suite Bergamasque, written for solo piano and completed in 1905. The title, meaning “Moonlight,” is inspired by Paul Verlaine’s poem, evoking a serene and reflective atmosphere. The piece epitomizes French Impressionism, focusing on mood and imagery over traditional form.
Structure and Atmosphere

The piece is in ternary form (ABA):

    Opening (A):
    A soft, flowing melody emerges over delicate arpeggios. The music feels weightless, like moonlight shimmering on water. Debussy uses rich harmonies and seventh chords to create a dreamlike quality, with a tender, introspective mood.

    Middle Section (B):
    The dynamics intensify, with fuller textures and soaring melodic lines. This section brings a sense of emotional depth and urgency, contrasting with the calm opening. Arpeggios cascade dramatically, giving the impression of moonlight suddenly brightening or revealing hidden beauty.

    Closing (A):
    The opening material returns, slightly varied, fading into a gentle, whisper-like conclusion. The piece ends as quietly as it began, leaving a sense of stillness and wonder.

Musical Features

    Harmonics: Debussy’s use of whole-tone scales, parallel chords, and non-functional harmony creates a suspended, ethereal soundscape.
    Melody: The lyrical melody floats effortlessly above the accompaniment, expressing both simplicity and emotional depth.
    Texture: Light, transparent textures alternate with moments of lush, resonant fullness, embodying the interplay of light and shadow.

Mood and Interpretation

Clair de Lune evokes the quiet magic of a moonlit night, combining serenity with subtle melancholy. Its poetic quality invites listeners to imagine moonlight reflecting on a calm lake, whispering through trees, or illuminating a tranquil landscape. The music feels timeless, blending stillness with fleeting moments of intensity.

Cultural Impact

This iconic piece has been widely used in films (Ocean’s Eleven, Twilight) and pop culture, often accompanying scenes of romance, nostalgia, or quiet reflection. Its universal appeal lies in its ability to evoke deep emotion while remaining understated.
Performance Notes

Expressive dynamics, fluid phrasing, and careful pedaling are essential to capturing its delicate atmosphere. A balance between freedom and control ensures its dreamlike flow remains intact.

Clair de Lune is a masterpiece of impressionistic music, celebrated for its ability to transport listeners into a realm of quiet beauty and introspection.

Taylor Swift - the fate of ophelia

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