Description

Ludwig van Beethoven created the Sonatina in G major op. 79 between 1809 and 1810, essentially as a supplementary piece to his larger piano works: the E flat major Piano Concerto, the Choral Fantasy, and the “Les Adieux” Sonata. The essence of Beethoven is evident in this piece as well, even if it may not have received the same level of inspiration and artistic dedication. The “Presto alla tedesca” gained popularity due to its motif of a third, reminiscent of a cuckoo's call, which is explored through all the keys. The middle movement, characterized by its innocent beauty, incorporates a Russian melody imbued with melancholy, while the finale is enjoyable for its humorous elements.

Henle’s latest Urtext edition is supported by a robust source situation: the original manuscript of the sonata is preserved, and in 1810, Beethoven arranged for the publication of two original editions in London and Leipzig. Similar to our previous new editions, this one is also the result of the successful collaboration between Norbert Gertsch and the esteemed pianist Murray Perahia, who contributes the fingering himself.