Beethoven, Piano Sonata No. 27 in E-minor, Op. 90, Second Movement

My playing a portion of the Beethoven Piano Sonata No. 7 in E-minor, Op. 90.
Jacket by agnès b.; skirt, an unnamed brand.

Isn’t this movement wonderful? It is so warm and simply beautiful—one of my favorite movements in all of Beethoven’s sonatas.

When listening to this movement, do you hear another composer’s voice emerging? Yes—Schubert. The beautiful, cantabile-like melody strongly recalls a defining characteristic of Schubert’s compositional style.

There was, of course, a meaningful connection between Beethoven and Schubert. Beethoven was aware of Schubert and recognized his talent, while Schubert deeply revered Beethoven’s greatness. When Beethoven passed away, Schubert was entrusted with the honor of carrying his coffin during the funeral procession, attended by over 20,000 citizens of Vienna.

Perhaps this movement can be heard as an homage to Schubert.

When I play this movement, I aim to shape the melody in a truly cantabile manner, as if sung by a vocalist. I pay particular attention to phrasing, Beethoven’s slurs, and the balance between the melody and the accompaniment.

What do you imagine or feel when you listen to this movement? I would be very grateful for your thoughts in the comments.

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