Moonlight Sonata Ludwig von Beethoven
Oct 5th, 2007 by skanson.com
“The Moonlight Sonata by Ludwig von Beethoven (Sonata No.14 in C#-, Op.27 No.2) is and will be one of my favorite compositions of all time. This classical guitar arrangement is also o ne of my most loved pieces to perform. Although Ludwig von Beethoven is known for his more bombastic style, as in the 5th Symphony, I have always been struck by his tenderness. For me, this classical guitar Moonlight Sonata showcases this tenderness while 
speaking volumes about life and living.” - Darren Curtis Skanson
Song History - The movement has made a powerful impression on many listeners; for instance, Berlioz wrote that it “is one of those poems that human language does not know how to qualify.” The work was very popular in Beethoven’s day, to the point of exasperating the composer, who wrote “Surely I’ve written better things.” In 1832, the German poet and music critic Ludwig Rellstab compared the music of this first movement of Sonata No.14 in C#-, Op.27 to moonlight shining on Lake Lucerne, giving rise to the work’s byname, the “Moonlight” Sonata. Beethoven included the phrase “Quasi una fantasia” (Italian: Almost a fantasy) in the title.
Other Beethoven arrangements by Darren Curtis Skanson: Fur Elise, Ode To Joy, and Allegrehtto from Symphony #7
Ludwig von Beethoven was baptized December 17, 1770 and died March 26, 1827. Beethoven is widely regarded as one of history’s greatest composers, and was the predominant figure in the transitional period between the Classical and Romantic eras in Western classical music. 
His reputation and genius have inspired—and in many cases intimidated—ensuing generations of composers, musicians, and audiences.
Although Darren Curtis Skanson is known mostly for his classical guitar compositions, he is also a prolific arranger. His classical guitar arrangements of Beethoven, Bach, Brahms, and other classical composers are among the most essential to the classical guitar repertoire.