Beethoven - Piano Sonata No. 7, Op. 10 No. 3 (PDF Digital Download)

Ludwig van Beethoven's Piano Sonata No. 7 in D major, Op. 10, No. 3, marks a significant advancement in his early compositional development, showcasing a heightened ambition and expressive range within the sonata form. Composed between 1796 and 1798, this work is the most substantial of the three sonatas in his Opus 10 set. It is particularly renowned for its dramatic and expansive opening movement, a testament to Beethoven's growing confidence in manipulating large-scale structures. The second movement, a Largo e mesto (slow and mournful), stands out for its profound emotional depth and intense pathos, often considered one of Beethoven's most moving early slow movements. This solemnity is then starkly contrasted by a playful and energetic Menuetto, followed by a brilliant and witty Rondo finale. Sonata No. 7 exemplifies Beethoven's burgeoning originality and his increasing willingness to push beyond the conventional boundaries of the classical style, making it a vital piece for understanding his artistic evolution.

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.

AMEB Level: LMusA