Introducing Beethoven

 

First Teaching Pieces by Beethoven
Pedagogically Compiled and Edited
Copyright 2007 by Isabel Otero Bowen and Ward Bowen

Introducing Beethoven is a piano literature collection designed to present students to their first works by the composer, while also exploring his illustrated biography. The intention of this publication is to aid both teacher and student through the difficult transition from method materials to repertoire. These pieces have been carefully selected so that they are accessible to students in an early stage of development, thus better preparing them for the study of Beethoven's major works, such as the sonatas, variations, and concertos.

This collection has been arranged chronologically. By connecting piano literature with music history, the student will become aware of the composer's own struggles, interests, and anecdotes. This will allow the student to identify with the music in a uniquely personal way as opposed to studying the literature alone. The compositions were selected based on their pedagogical value, compiled mainly from Beethoven's collections of dances, in addition to the two Sonatinas in G and F, the Six Variations on a Swiss Song, and two easier Bagatelles. 

The pieces in this edition were studied carefully and are based on Urtext scores for accuracy. In most of his original works, Beethoven meticulously indicated articulation, slurs, ornamentation, and dynamics. All of these markings have been included; however, because of the educational purpose of this book, few recommended slurs and dynamics have been added. Fingerings and metronome markings have also been added throughout. Careful effort has been made to remain respectful to the composer’s original intentions. 

A Guide to Playing Beethoven has been included at the end of the book. Here a comprehensive yet straightforward explanation has been given to all stylistic and performance questions, such as dynamics, tempo, and ornamentation. Realizations have been notated throughout the book every time an ornament appears for the first time, with the exception of grace notes. This is to facilitate learning and guide interpretation. An ornamentation table has also been included.

Contents:

  • 16 Page Illustrated Biography

  • German Dance No. 1, WoO8

  • German Dance No. 4, WoO8

  • German Dance No. 6, WoO8

  • German Dance No. 11, WoO8

  • Minuet Nos. 1, WoO 10

  • Minuet No. 2, WoO 10

  • Minuet No. 5, WoO 10

  • Sonatina in G, Kinsky-Halm Anh. 5, No. 1

  • Sonatina in F, Kinsky-Halm Anh. 5, No. 2

  • Six Variations on a Swiss Song, WoO 64

  • Ländler No. 1, WoO 11

  • Ländler No. 2, WoO 11

  • Ländler No. 3, WoO 11

  • Anglaise in D, Hess 61

  • German Dance No. 9, WoO 13

  • Ländler No. 1, WoO 15

  • Ländler No. 2, WoO 15

  • Bagatelle 'Lustig-Traurg' WoO 54

  • March in B Flat, Hess 87 (WoO 29)

  • Ecossaise in G, WoO 23

  • Bagatelle No. 9, Op. 119

  • Allemande, WoO 81

  • Waltz in E Flat, WoO 84

  • Waltz in D, WoO 85

  • Ecossaise in E Flat, WoO 86

  • A Guide to Playing Beethoven