Analysis: Moonlight Sonata

printed from www.musictheory.net

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.
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# – 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 second half of measure 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.

Play these measures of Moonlight Sonata.

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