Analysis: Moonlight Sonata

In this analysis, we will be examining measures 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.

Analysis: Moonlight Sonata

file:///C|/Users/wendy/dwhelper/2014-07/Greg%2...t%20files/Analysis%20%20Moonlight%20Sonata.htm (1 of 5) [19/08/2014 7:34:51 AM]

Analysis: Moonlight Sonata

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 second half of measure 49 contains C#EG#, a C# minor triad.

file:///C|/Users/wendy/dwhelper/2014-07/Greg%2...t%20files/Analysis%20%20Moonlight%20Sonata.htm (2 of 5) [19/08/2014 7:34:51 AM]

Analysis: Moonlight Sonata

The first half of measure 50 contains DF#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.

file:///C|/Users/wendy/dwhelper/2014-07/Greg%2...t%20files/Analysis%20%20Moonlight%20Sonata.htm (3 of 5) [19/08/2014 7:34:51 AM]

Analysis: Moonlight Sonata

The first part of measure 51 contains C#EG#, another C# minor triad.

Play these measures of Moonlight Sonata.

file:///C|/Users/wendy/dwhelper/2014-07/Greg%2...t%20files/Analysis%20%20Moonlight%20Sonata.htm (4 of 5) [19/08/2014 7:34:51 AM]

Analysis: Moonlight Sonata

If this lesson helps you, please purchase our apps to support our

site.

file:///C|/Users/wendy/dwhelper/2014-07/Greg%2...t%20files/Analysis%20%20Moonlight%20Sonata.htm (5 of 5) [19/08/2014 7:34:51 AM]

Local DiskAnalysis: Moonlight Sonata