Piano Concerto No. 5 in E-flat Major, Op. 73 (Emperor)
Ludwig van Beethoven
Work background
Researched classical background
Beethoven begins his final piano concerto with orchestral chords answered by sweeping solo flourishes, immediately giving the piano a commanding presence. He then builds a broad first movement, a restrained slow movement, and an energetic finale linked without a full stop. The work dates from the period of Vienna's bombardment in 1809. Its Emperor nickname was attached independently of the composer.
A listening guide
Hear how the quiet end of the slow movement hints at the rhythm of the finale before it fully arrives.
Listening suggestions are editorial guides to the music.
Forces: Solo piano and orchestra
Composition: 1809
The first public performance followed in Leipzig in 1811; 1811 is not the composition year.
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.
Also known as: Emperor Concerto
Date, title and version notes
The nickname is not evidence of a dedication to Napoleon or an imperial program.
Piano Concerto No. 5, "Emperor" - 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
Piano Concerto No. 5, "Emperor" - 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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