Rondo in G Major, Op. 51, No. 2

This composition published in 1802 constitutes a completely separate concert piece from Opus 51 no. 1. Compared to the first Rondo (op. 51 no. 1), the second is considerably longer and with a markedly different expressive disposition. Here, lyrical traits predominate without any of the dramatic incursions otherwise so emblematic of Beethoven's compositions. For that reason, this comparatively reserved work did not enjoy the same popularity as the Rondo op. 51 no. 1 and continues to invite rediscovery. Based on her preliminary research for the critical Complete Edition, Beethoven specialist Joanna Cobb Biermann has carefully revised the musical text of the Henle Urtext edition and updated the preface to reflect the latest scholarship.