The “Waldstein Sonata” is one of Beethoven's most famous sonatas, and is an excellent example of one of his more Romantic sonatas. Its first movement is a sonata in somewhat standard sonata form; however, Beethoven modulates to the mediant when moving from theme I to theme II, which is not a typical key relation in a classical sonata. The development involves repeated instances of various themes from the exposition set over myriad modulations throughout various obscure keys.
	The second movement is an extremely slow introduction to the third movement. Its slow speed is not calm, but rather tense. The tension increases slowly throughout the piece, reaching a strong climax and then leading the listener to a suspenseful transition into the third movement. Most of the material of the piece is built on a simple dotted rhythm with a rising interval.
	The final movement of the Waldstein sonata is a long journey from a large variety of emotions, from dark and blisteringly fast, to soft and quiet. This is perhaps the most romantic of the movements of the sonata, with many blurred harmonies due to long pedal markings, dramatic moments, and extreme emotions. It achieves a sort of transcendental feeling found in compositions of the Romantic periods with its long pedal markings, shimmering textures, and its slow harmonic rhythm. These characteristics foreshadow elements of Beethoven's later sonatas where he capitalized on slow harmonic rhythm and muddied textures that seem to lose any melodic content.

This is from my senior recital on December 2, 2012.

Sonata No.21 in C Major, Op.53 "Waldstein" - Ludwig Van Beethoven

Allegro Con Brio, Sonata No.21 in C major Op.53 "Waldstein" - Ludwig van Beethoven

Introduzione, Molto Adagio, Sonata No.21 in C major, Op.53 "Waldstein" - Ludwig van Beethoven

Rondo, Allegretto Moderato, Sonata in C major, Op.53 "Waldstein" - Ludwig Van Beethoven

I'm a pianist, music teacher, and fledgling composer who is now trying to use my gift for the Lord. You'll find recordings of me playing various pieces throughout my past educational process as well as recordings of performances of my works

Sonata No.21 in C Major, Op.53 "Waldstein" - Ludwig Van Beethoven

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