Beethoevn Piano Concerto No. 4

Beethoven’s Concerto no. 4 was finished in 1806 and premiered on December 22nd 1808 at the Theater an der Wien. with Beethoven as the soloist. It is a known fact that Beethoven attempted to present the concerto at an earlier time but was forced to wait since he could not find any piano players for the solo part.
     Just like many of Beethoven's works this concerto was dedicated to Archduke Rudolf to whom the composer dedicated, among others, his Piano Concerto no. 5, numerous piano sonatas, his violin sonata or his Triple Concerto.
     Starting with this concerto, Beethoven attributes a greater role to the orchestra in its relationship with the unaccompanied instrument, creating concertos that are considered genuine solo instrumental symphonies.

The piano concerto has three parts:

1. Allegro moderato
2. Andante con moto
3. Rondo-Vivace

Part I – Allegro moderato – starts with the presentation of the theme by the solo instrument renouncing at the presentation made by the orchestra as he had done in the first concertos.

Part II – Andante con moto – is a part full of contrasts, constructed like a dialogue between the orchestra and the solo instrument. The conversational character of this part renders the image of Orpheus, who, through his music, overcomes all hardships.

Part III – Rondo-Vivace – brings a cheerful and optimistic note through the themes of simple folkloric-like dance rhythms.

1. Piano Concerto no. 1 in C major op. 15
2. Piano Concerto no. 2 in B flat major op. 19
3. Piano Concerto no. 3 in C minor op. 37
4. Piano Concerto no. 4 in G major op. 58
5. Piano Concerto no. 5 “Emperor” in E flat major op. 73
6. Violin Concerto in D major op. 61
7. Triple Concerto for piano, violin and cello in C major op. 56

• Beethoven Symphonies - Each of the nine Beethoven symphonies analyzed.
• The piano sonatas - Analysis of the sonata form and the most important Beethoven Piano Sonatas.
• Sonatas for Cello and Piano - Discussion about Beethoven's five cello and piano sonatas.
• Sonatas for Violin and Piano - Overview of Beethoven's ten sonatas for violin and piano.
• String Quartets - Brief analysis of Beethoven's seventeen string quartets.
• The Opera "Fidelio" - The background, subject and influences of Beethoven's only opera.
• Trios - General discussion regarding Beethoven's trios for various instruments and ensembles.
• The Overtures - Brief overview of some of the most important Beethoven overtures.

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