The Complex Of C Minor In Beethoven's Piano Works Before 1800 A.C.

By inspecting different tonality used by composers in classical periods, their physical mechanism of tonality color and character options and by analyzing their common tonality color and composing character, this paper aims at tracing the historic formation of the specific tonality color of C minor piano works by composers before Beethoven. The introduction deals with these pieces composed before Beethoven so as to get the conclusion about the historical background of how specific color of C minor came into being. Chapter One studies three C minor piano pieces composed by Beethoven (Sonata No.5, Sonata No.8, Piano Concerto No.3), analyzes these first movements in detail from the perspective of the binary conflict, dotted rhythm, diminished seventh chord and the use of repeat notes. Chapter Two focuses on the similar backgrounds concerning compositions, general idea, theme design, heroic characters, etc. All of these characters could explain that how Beethoven understood and used the tonality of C minor. In the meantime we can also understand the influence of the three piano works on Beethoven's heroism style. In conclusion, pieces composed after 1800 by Beethoven and some typical C minor pieces by other composers are illustrated to show the connection of these three pieces in their color, style and spirit.