In this analysis, we will be examining measures 49-51 of Beethoven's Moonlight Sonata (Opus 27, Number 2, Movement 1).
In this analysis, we will be examining bars 49-51 of Beethoven's Moonlight Sonata (Opus 27, Number 2, Movement 1).
Since we are starting in the middle of the piece, I will reveal the key signature: it is in C# minor.
The first half of measure 49 contains G# – B# – D# – F#, a G# dominant seventh chord. Since the B# is the lowest note, the chord is in first inversion.
The first half of bar 49 contains G# – B# – D# – F#, a G# dominant seventh chord. Since the B# is the lowest note, the chord is in first inversion.
The second half of measure 49 contains C# – E – G#, a C# minor triad.
The second half of bar 49 contains C# – E – G#, a C# minor triad.
The first half of measure 50 contains D – F# – A, a D major triad in first inversion. This is the Neapolitan sixth chord in C# minor.
The first half of bar 50 contains D – F# – A, a D major triad in first inversion. This is the Neapolitan sixth chord in C# minor.
The second half of measure 50 contains G# – B# – F#, a G# dominant seventh chord with a missing fifth.
The second half of bar 50 contains G# – B# – F#, a G# dominant seventh chord with a missing fifth.
The first part of measure 51 contains C# – E – G#, another C# minor triad.
The first part of bar 51 contains C# – E – G#, another C# minor triad.
Play these measures of Moonlight Sonata.
Play these bars of Moonlight Sonata.