Vocal Style in Beethoven's Last 3 Piano Sonatas

Abstract

Beethoven’s last 3 piano sonatas are very valuable works in piano literature. While each of the sonatas has special features and has unique
qualities, they also share many similar characteristics which are specific to Beethoven’s late period. Notable shared characteristic is integration of
compositon styles found in vocal music. This article aims to investigate the vocal style in Beethoven’s last 3 piano sonatas. The study reveals that
the integration of vocal style has been affected by events in Beethoven’s late personal life, as well as the social, economic and political conditions
at the time. The vocal style is distinct and prominent in all 3 sonatas, especially in Op. 110. Beethoven used the vocal style variedly. By applying
the vocal style , he created a new dimension to piano sonatas and had an influence on later composers.