Page:Rolland - Beethoven, tr. Hull, 1927.pdf/202

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170

2nd Sonata, Opus 12, No. 2, in A.

Allegro vivace—Andante più tosto Allegretto—Allegretto piacevole.

Although this Sonata offers no outstanding point of interest, it is to be regretted that it is not more frequently heard. There are one or two places where the sunny sky is slightly overcast, but on the whole, it is a work brimful of youthful happiness. The Andante, somewhat frail, is like the Finale, full of fine melody, and gay with optimistic feelings of youth.

3rd Sonata, Opus 12, No. 3, in E flat.

Allegro con spirito—Adagio con molto espressione—Rondo.

The tuneful, breezy Allegro contains some brilliant work for the piano. The Adagio seems hardly deep enough to carry its broad time with dignity. The delicate Finale—short, simple, and tuneful—is well rounded off.

4th Sonata, Opus 23, in A minor and major.

Presto—Andante—Scherzo—Allegro molto.

This Sonata, published in 1801, and dedicated to the Count Moritz von Fries, is one of the more serene works of the "first-period" style. Its charms are not readily apparent, but it is full of interest to the serious musician. The subjects of