“The 23 Greatest Solo Piano Works” S:1 E:5 The Appassionata Sonata

S:1 E:5 The Appassionata Sonata First, learn how Beethoven’s relationship with the organ led to the orchestral power and sonority of his piano works. Also trace how the Appassionata grew from the composer’s psychological self-reinvention following his tragic hearing loss. In the sonata’s opening, see how Beethoven creates a compelling dramatic narrative through persistent dissonances and ambiguous harmonies. Witness how the chorale-like second movement theme and variations achieves a lyrical calm before the relentless darkness of the heart-stopping finale.