Sheet Music: Adagio cantabile

TitleAdagio cantabile
from Piano Sonata No. 8, “Pathétique”
Opus numberOp. 13, Mvmt. 2
ComposerLudwig van Beethoven (1770–1827)
InstrumentationFlute and Piano
KeyA-flat major
RangeC4–F6
Time signature2/4
Tempo63 BPM
Performance time4:45
Difficulty levelintermediate
Download printable scorePDF Sheet Music (172 kB) (preview)
Download audio tracksMIDI (change tempo/key) MP3 (4 MB)
Play-along accompanimentMIDI (change tempo/key) MP3 (4.1 MB)
Date added2010-11-19
Last updated2017-08-06
Download popularity index☆☆☆☆☆ 6.0 (very popular)
Categories
Romantic, Sonatas

Performances

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Friday 19 November 2010

Tune of the Day: Adagio cantabile

by Ludwig van Beethoven, arranged for Flute and Piano

Beethoven's Piano Sonata No. 8 in C minor, commonly known as Sonata Pathétique, was written when the composer was 27 years old, and published in 1799. Although commonly thought to be one of the few works to be named by the composer himself, it was actually named Grande sonate pathétique (to Beethoven's liking) by the publisher, who was impressed by the sonata's tragic sonorities.

This sonata is one of Beethoven's most well-known works, and perhaps the earliest of Beethoven's compositions to achieve widespread and enduring popularity. It has three movements, of which the middle Adagio is arguably the most popular, opening with a famous cantabile (songful) melody. This theme is played three times, always in A-flat major, separated by two modulating episodes.

Thanks to Jackie for suggesting this piece!

Other Movements from the same Work

2.Adagio cantabile Flute & Piano
3.Rondo Flute solo