In spirit and form the Septet Opus 20 by Beethoven follows the model of 18th-century divertimentos, a lighter entertainment in a range of short movements. It opens, however, with an almost symphonic movement, complete with slow introduction and a substantial coda, followed by an Adagio offering lyrical solo opportunities.
The sparkling minuet is based on a theme from Beethoven’s piano sonata Op. 42, No. 2, which, higher opus number notwithstanding, had been composed in 1796.
Beethoven uses all of the instrumental variety available to him in the theme and variations (five, plus coda) that follow. The horn introduces the lusty rustic Scherzo, and the contrasting trio section features a lovely floating tune for the cello.
A solemn march introduces the finale, a bright and dashing Presto with a cadenza for the violin, a feature not uncommon in earlier divertimentos.
Here are Janine Jansen and her friends to play this music for you:
