String Quartet No. 14 in C-sharp Minor, Op. 131
Ludwig van Beethoven
Work background
Researched classical background
Beethoven links seven movements into an unusually continuous quartet. A slow fugue begins the work, while a long central variations movement provides one of its main points of balance. Brief connecting movements and abrupt changes of pace reshape the listener's sense of scale. Despite the many sections, returning relationships and carefully managed transitions give the quartet a powerful cumulative design.
A listening guide
Follow the transitions between movements and notice which feel like a pause, an interruption, or a continuation.
Listening suggestions are editorial guides to the music.
Forces: Two violins, viola, and cello
Composition: 1826
The seven-movement plan differs from the standard four-movement quartet.
This entry describes the musical work or cycle. Composition, premiere and publication dates describe different events. Performers and recordings can be explored through the external listening search.
String Quartet No. 14 in C-sharp minor, Op. 131 - LA Phil
Work identity, chronology where stated, and the specific musical or historical context summarized in this entry. | Reviewed 2026-10-19
Sources for this work
String Quartet No. 14 in C-sharp minor, Op. 131 - LA Phil
Work identity, chronology where stated, and the specific musical or historical context summarized in this entry. | Reviewed 2026-10-19
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