Beethoven: Piano Sonata No.4, Op.7

Introduction

Ludwig van Beethoven's Piano Sonata No. 4, in E-flat major, Op. 7, sometimes nicknamed the Grand Sonata, dedicated to his student Babette, the Countess Keglevics, has four movements. This piano sonata was composed in Bratislava, in 1796, in November, during his visit of Keglevich Palace in Bratislava.

Along with the Hammerklavier Sonata, it is one of the longest piano sonatas of Beethoven. A typical performance lasts about 28 minutes.

Structure

The Sonata is in four movements:

1. Allegro molto e con brio, 6/8
2. Largo, con gran espressione, 3/4 in C major
3. Allegro, 3/4; Trio in E-flat minor
4. Rondo: Poco allegretto e grazioso, 2/4