Violin Sonata No. 3 (Beethoven)

Ludwig van Beethoven's Violin Sonata No. 3 in E-flat major, Op. 12, No. 3 is the third in a set of three sonatas for piano and violin, dedicated to Antonio Salieri. It was composed in 1797-98 and published in 1799. The sonata consists of four movements:

• I. Allegro con spirito: This movement, in E-flat major, is characterized by its energetic and playful character. The interplay between the violin and piano is prominent, with both instruments sharing melodic material and engaging in lively dialogues.

• II. Adagio con molto espressione: A more lyrical and expressive movement in C major. It offers a contrast to the preceding allegro, showcasing the capacity for deep emotion within the sonata form. The violin often carries the primary melodic line, supported by the piano's harmonic foundation.

• III. Rondo. Allegro molto: This movement returns to E-flat major and adopts a rondo form, providing a lighthearted and spirited conclusion to the work. The recurring rondo theme is punctuated by contrasting episodes, maintaining a sense of dynamism and rhythmic drive.

The sonata, along with its companion pieces Op. 12, Nos. 1 and 2, marks an early stage in Beethoven's development of the violin sonata genre. While showing influences from Mozart, it also exhibits distinct characteristics of Beethoven's emerging compositional style, including rhythmic vitality and dramatic contrasts. It remains a significant work in the violin and piano repertoire.