Beethoven wrote just a handful of compositions for piano four hands, but they stretch over his entire career. Opus 6 is Beethoven’s only Sonata for the genre. The two short movements are an Allegro and an excessively gentle Rondo.
#Beethoven250 Day 87
Sonata in D for Piano Four Hands (Opus 6), 1796–97
One of the few complete live performances of Opus 6 on YouTube features the famous Jussen brothers (@JussenOfficial), but what’s the problem with the aspect ratio?
The most startling part of Beethoven’s Opus 6 is the opening 8 notes. It’s not exactly the same as the 5th Symphony, of course: The intervals are different and it’s in ¾ time, quickly establishing an unambiguous triple-meter rhythm that’s almost suitable for waltzing. But still!
#Beethoven250 Day 87
Sonata in D for Piano Four Hands (Opus 6), 1796–97
Despite the still frames at the beginning, this is a video recording of a live performance from Tel Aviv.
It’s likely that Beethoven wrote the Opus 6 Sonata for piano students. Playing piano four hands can spark a romance, ruin a friendship, or incite war between siblings. Opus 6 is still played by students and non-professionals, but often just one of the two movements.
#Beethoven250 Day 87
Sonata in D for Piano Four Hands (Opus 6), 1796–97
The first movement of Opus 6 played by Michael & Daniel Shen at a New Jersey Music Teachers Association recital.
#Beethoven250 Day 87
Sonata in D for Piano Four Hands (Opus 6), 1796–97
A well-made video of the second movement played by two young people who seem to enjoy what they’re doing, making their online audience happy as well.