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.
  • 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.
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