"Moonlight Sonata" is one of Ludwig van Beethoven's most famous piano compositions. Officially known as "Piano Sonata No. 14 in C-sharp minor 'Quasi una fantasia', Op. 27, No. 2," it was completed in 1801 and dedicated to his student, Countess Giulietta Guicciardi.
The sonata has three movements:
1. *Adagio sostenuto*: The first movement, marked Adagio sostenuto, is perhaps the most famous. It is characterized by a haunting, melancholic melody that floats over a steady triplet accompaniment. This movement has a serene and introspective quality.
2. *Allegretto*: The second movement is a contrastingly light and dance-like piece, offering a respite from the intensity of the first and third movements.
3. *Presto agitato*: The final movement is a fast and turbulent piece, full of technical challenges and dramatic contrasts, showcasing Beethoven's virtuosic writing for the piano.
The "Moonlight" nickname was added after Beethoven's death, inspired by a poetic description of the first movement's effect.