Beethoven: Sonata No. 14 in C-sharp Minor, Opus 27, No. 2 (“Moonlight”)

Beethoven’s Sonata No. 14 in C-sharp Minor (Sonata quasi una fantasia), Op. 27, No. 2, is among the best loved and most frequently performed works of any composer. The nickname “moonlight” probably came from a poetic phrase used to describe the sonata in about 1832, four years after Beethoven’s death. Dr. Stewart Gordon’s editions of Beethoven’s most popular piano sonatas provide the key to a stylistic performance. Thorough research of the earliest available sources has enabled Dr. Gordon to produce the most accurate reflection of the composer’s intent. Each sonata contains helpful fingering suggestions and performance recommendations. Other editors’ conclusions are noted where performance options are open to interpretation.