Who composed the famous "Moonlight Sonata"?

 

The famous "Moonlight Sonata" was composed by Ludwig van Beethoven. It was formally known as Piano Sonata No. 14 in C-sharp minor "Quasi una fantasia", Op. 27, No. 2.

The "Moonlight Sonata," composed by Ludwig van Beethoven, is one of his most renowned piano compositions. It was completed in 1801 and dedicated to his pupil, Countess Giulietta Guicciardi. The official title of the piece is "Piano Sonata No. 14 in C-sharp minor 'Quasi una fantasia', Op. 27, No. 2."

The nickname "Moonlight Sonata" was given to it posthumously by the German music critic and poet Ludwig Rellstab in 1832, who likened the first movement to the moonlight shining upon Lake Lucerne. The sonata consists of three movements:

• Adagio sostenuto (in C-sharp minor)
• Allegretto (in D-flat major)
• Presto agitato (in C-sharp minor)

The first movement, Adagio sostenuto, is perhaps the most famous and recognizable part of the sonata, characterized by its hauntingly beautiful melody and tranquil atmosphere. 

The sonata as a whole is considered a masterpiece of Beethoven's early period and remains immensely popular among pianists and music enthusiasts worldwide.