This graceful and happy Sonata, also published in 1801 and dedicated, like its predecessor, to the Count Moritz von Fries, is the most popular in the "early-period" style. The first movement is full of serene happiness. The Adagio has a lovely theme, dreamy and languorous as a summer's day. The Scherzo is characteristic, full of fun and oddity; the Rondo, full of good spirits, the chief theme being varied at each return.
6th Sonata, Opus 30, No. 1, in A.
Allegro—Adagio molto espressivo—Allegretto con variazioni.
This is the first of a set of three Sonatas dedicated to the Kaiser Alexander I. With this Opus the true individuality of Beethoven is manifested. Although the opening of this work is not particularly striking, yet the movement has a clarity of style and delicacy of workmanship together with distinct melodic charm. The theme of the Adagio is of great beauty, caressing in its tenderness. For the Finale, Beethoven turns to his beloved Variations form. This was not the original Finale which was "lifted" in a moment of haste to form the conclusion of the Kreutzer Sonata. Still, one cannot deny that the present variations suit this charming poetical sonata much better than the Finale of the Kreutzer would have done.
7th Sonata, Opus 30, No. 2, in C minor.
Allegro con brio—Adagio cantabile—Scherzo—Allegro.
This favourite work is one of the great masterpieces of music. The first and last movements sound the clear note of Beethoven's personality—a king here comes to his own. The first movement opens with a veritable quatrain of musical poetry. The gay martial swing of the second subject is remarkable. Stormy episodes follow, and the development section commences with a new idea. Conflict succeeds conflict before the serenity of the exposition returns. The beautiful Adagio flows along with a solemn majesty, although there are one or two short dramatic points. The Scherzo, bright and tuneful, somewhat naive, does not give us the fulness of the real Beethoven which we get in the sombre, energetic and passionate Finale.
8th Sonata, Opus 30, No. 3, in G.
Allegro assai—Tempo di Minuetto—Allegro vivace.