Sonata no. 26 in E-flat major (Les Adieux)

Sonata no. 26 in E-flat major, op. 81a (Les Adieux) by Beethoven is a three-movement sonata that was composed as a tribute to his friend, Archduke Rudolph. The first movement, titled "Das Lebewohl" (The Farewell), is known for its expressive and poignant melodies, reflecting the emotions of saying goodbye. The second movement, "Abwesenheit" (The Absence), is more subdued and features a melancholic theme that conveys a sense of longing and anticipation. The final movement, "Das Wiedersehen" (The Return), is lively and joyful, representing the reunion with a loved one after a period of separation. The sonata as a whole is a masterful work that showcases Beethoven's emotional depth and innovative compositional style.