We have a collection of 44 arrangements for Ludwig van Beethoven - Für Elise, WoO 59
Who was the mysterious “Elise” immortalized in Beethoven’s masterpiece? Learn!
"Für Elise" (Bagatelle No. 25 in A minor, WoO 59) is one of Ludwig van Beethoven's most famous and recognizable compositions. Here are some interesting facts about this piece:
Mysterious Dedicatee: The title "Für Elise" translates to "For Elise" in English. However, the identity of the dedicatee, or who the "Elise" in the title refers to, remains a mystery. There is no definitive historical evidence to confirm the identity of Elise.
Date of Composition: Beethoven composed "Für Elise" in 1810, during what is considered his middle period. The piece was not published until 1867, more than 40 years after its composition.
Bagatelle: "Für Elise" is classified as a bagatelle, which is a short, light-hearted instrumental composition. Despite its brevity, it has become one of Beethoven's most enduring and popular works.
Manuscript Discovery: The original manuscript for "Für Elise" was discovered in 1867 by Ludwig Nohl, a German musicologist and scholar. He found it among Beethoven's papers and published it, bringing the piece to public attention.
Unfinished Status: The version of "Für Elise" that we commonly hear today is only a fragment of the original composition. The piece is usually played as it was published by Nohl, which includes the first section and a repeat of part of the A section. The full extent of the original composition is not known.
Characteristic Melody: The main melody of "Für Elise" is instantly recognizable and has become a staple of popular culture. Its simple yet charming melody has made it a favorite for both pianists and listeners.
Style and Structure: The piece is written in A minor and follows a ternary (ABA) form. The A section features the iconic melody, while the B section provides contrast. The A section is then repeated, creating a balanced and cohesive structure.
Piano Pedagogical Use: "Für Elise" is often used as a teaching piece for piano students due to its moderate difficulty level and the opportunity it provides for practicing techniques like phrasing, dynamics, and control of the instrument.
Misattribution and Popular Culture: Due to its immense popularity, "Für Elise" has been featured in various movies, television shows, commercials, and other forms of media. This widespread use has sometimes led to misunderstandings and misattribution of the piece to other composers.
Beethoven's Legacy: While "Für Elise" is a small part of Beethoven's vast musical output, its popularity has contributed to Beethoven's enduring legacy. The piece's widespread appeal and recognizability have helped introduce countless people to classical music.
"Für Elise" remains a captivating and enigmatic piece in the world of classical music, captivating audiences with its timeless melody and charming simplicity.