Piano Sonata No. 8 'Pathétique'

Ludwig van BeethovenOp. 13

ClassicalIconicsonataC minorGrave2/2~18 min
H6
Henle (estimated)
RCM 10ABRSM 8

About this piece

This sonata is a landmark of high-Classical emotional expression, noted for its stark dynamic contrasts and operatic intensity. It bridges the gap between the restraint of the 18th century and the raw drama of the Romantic era.

Teacher notes

Executing the rapid-fire tremolos and wide-span chords with both precision and power is the main technical difficulty.

Technical focus

dramatic-contrastspeed-agilitycantabilelarge-chords

Mood

dramaticpassionateenergetic

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Free sheet music on IMSLP

Pieces similar to Piano Sonata No. 8 'Pathétique'

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Frequently asked questions

How hard is Piano Sonata No. 8 'Pathétique' (Op. 13) by Ludwig van Beethoven?

Piano Sonata No. 8 'Pathétique' (Op. 13) is rated Henle level 6 of 9 — advanced repertoire, roughly ABRSM grades 7–8. In the RCM system it corresponds to about level 10.

What level do I need to play Piano Sonata No. 8 'Pathétique'?

You should be comfortable at Henle level 6 — meaning you can already play level 5–6 pieces cleanly. Learning it one level early is possible as a stretch piece, but more than that usually leads to months of frustration.

How long is Piano Sonata No. 8 'Pathétique'?

A typical performance of Piano Sonata No. 8 'Pathétique' (Op. 13) lasts about 18 minutes.

Where can I get free sheet music for Piano Sonata No. 8 'Pathétique'?

Piano Sonata No. 8 'Pathétique' (Op. 13) is available as free public-domain sheet music on IMSLP — the score is linked directly from this page.

What pieces are similar to Piano Sonata No. 8 'Pathétique'?

Pieces at a comparable difficulty and character include 32 Variations in C minor by Ludwig van Beethoven, Rondo a capriccio in G major by Ludwig van Beethoven, Piano Sonata No. 17 'Tempest', No. 2 by Ludwig van Beethoven — see the full similar-pieces list on this page.