Beethoven - Piano Sonata No. 1, Op. 2 No. 1 (PDF Sheet Music / Digital Download)

Step into the dramatic world of Ludwig van Beethoven's Piano Sonata No. 1 in F Minor, Op. 2, No. 1. Composed in 1795 and dedicated to his teacher Joseph Haydn, this inaugural piano sonata immediately announces Beethoven's arrival as a powerful new voice. Far from a timid beginning, it bursts forth with a fiery intensity and emotional depth that hints at the revolutionary works to come.

From the urgent drive of the opening Allegro to the tender lyricism of the Adagio, the playful yet poignant Menuetto, and the turbulent energy of the Prestissimo finale, Sonata No. 1 is a masterclass in early Romantic expression within a classical framework. It showcases Beethoven's remarkable ability to infuse traditional forms with a profound sense of drama and personal conviction.

About the editor

Frederic Lamond occupies a significant position in the historical lineage of Beethoven interpreters, his influence extending profoundly to the piano sonatas. A direct pupil of Franz Liszt—who himself maintained connections to Beethoven's circle through Carl Czerny—Lamond was a dedicated custodian of a grand tradition in Beethoven performance. His interpretations, documented in recordings from the 1920s and 1930s, are often characterised by their robust character, dramatic contrasts, and an almost improvisatory freedom, reflecting a less overtly "perfected" but deeply personal engagement with the music.

Crucially, Lamond's legacy is also cemented by his own 1923 edition of the complete Beethoven Piano Sonatas, published by Breitkopf & Härtel. This edition stands apart from many contemporary "instructive editions" by its meticulous respect for the musical text; Lamond chose not to directly alter the printed notes. Instead, his contribution lies in the provision of insightful fingerings and illuminating interpretive suggestions, often presented as judicious footnotes. These annotations guide pianists on nuanced aspects such as ornamentation and the precise execution of pauses, offering a unique and invaluable historical perspective on performance practice. Lamond's edition thus serves as an essential resource for serious musicians seeking a profound understanding of Beethoven's keyboard masterworks.

This Mondschein Studio edition is a reissue of music originally published by Breitkopf & Härtel.