Beethoven's "Named" Sonatas

Many of these have been given names for various reasons. As all may not be aware of these, they are listed here in order of composition.

Piano Sonata in C minor, op.13 is called the "Pathetique", because the opening C minor chord denotes the French meaning of the word as "emotional."

Sonata for Violin & Piano in F major, op.24 is called the "Spring" Sonata, referring to its gentle & lyrical character.

Piano Sonata in C# minor, op.27, no.2 is called the "Moonlight" Sonata, because the adagio is likened to a boat floating in the moonlight.

Piano Sonata in D major, op.31/2 is called "The Tempest", because when Beethoven's secretary asked
him for the meaning of this work, Beethoven is supposed to have replied "Just read Shakespeare's "The Tempest."

Sonata for Violin & Piano in A major, op.47 is called the "Kreutzer" because Beethoven dedicated it to the French violinist of that name, who, however never played it!

Piano Sonata in F minor, op.57 is called the "Appassionato" because it is coloured throughout by a tragic tone.

Piano Sonata in E-flat, op.81a, was named "Les Adieux" for it was inspired by the departure of Archduke Rudolf from Vienna.

Piano Sonata in B-flat, op.106, was named so because he used the German name for piano, "Hammerklavier" for it.