Piano Trio in B-flat Major, Op.11 for violin (or clarinet), cello, and piano by Ludwig van Beethoven
Edited by Isidor Philipp. Published by International
Ludwig van Beethoven (1770-1827) was the most influential and admired composer of the Romantic Era, and is considered today to be among the greatest composers of classical music to ever live. His music is known variously for its compositional rigor, sublime beauty, organic development, gripping urgency, and life-affirming, universal humanism. He left a significant mark on almost every classical genre he worked in, from string quartets to symphonies.
Beethoven's early Piano Trio in B-flat Major, Op.11 ''Gassenhauer'' was originally written for clarinet, cello, and piano, but is commonly played with violin instead of clarinet. ''Gassenhauer'' in 19th century German refers to a popular tune that one is compelled to sing or whistle; we might call this an earworm today. In this piece, it refers to a theme, ''Pria ch'io l'impegno'', from a popular Wiegl opera of the day ''L'amor marinaro ossia Il corsaro''. This charming salon piece is available in this International edition edited by Isidor Philipp, which contains parts (only) for violin, clarinet, and cello, with a piano score. Advanced level, grade 5.
