Beethoven’s Seven Bagatelles (Op. 33)

Beethoven’s Seven Bagatelles (Op. 33) are the kind of pieces pianists often discover by accident …and then wonder why they aren’t played more often. They’re concise, full of character and wonderfully varied. Each bagatelle offers a self-contained world, whether witty and quick-footed, lyrically graceful, or tinged with gentle introspection.

In this blog post, we’ve selected excerpts from Graham Fitch’s newly published video lessons on four of the bagatelles, offering practice techniques, interpretive choices and other insights to help you bring the distinct character of each of these gems to life!

1. Bagatelle in E-Flat Major

This charming miniature begins with the marking Andante grazioso, quasi allegretto – a graceful walking pace with just a hint of liveliness. While Andante suggests relaxation, quasi allegretto reminds us to keep the music flowing forward.

The importance of feeling the 6/8 rhythm in two beats per bar to give the piece its gentle lilt is explained by Graham in the opening of his video lesson for this work. He also demonstrates left-hand choreography, showing how physical movement can reinforce the musical flow.

2. Bagatelle in C Major

Marked Scherzando, this Bagatelle immediately sets a playful, teasing tone. Rather than speed, the focus is on conveying wit and creating contrast – both within and between sections.

Graham explores a section requiring clear articulation and a slightly moderated tempo to ensure every note speaks in this excerpt from his video lesson. He also draws comparisons to orchestral instrumentation, offering imaginative insights into Beethoven’s humour!

4. Bagatelle in A Major

Opening with a graceful “slow – quick – quick – slow” rhythm reminiscent of Schubert, this lyrical work unfolds into an intricate conversation, almost like a miniature string quartet.

In this excerpt, Graham guides us through the structure and role of repeats, highlighting a witty middle section where the melody cheekily vanishes. To achieve a more musical interpretation, he also assigns instruments to the four contrapuntal voices, helping students hear and shape the interplay as though performing chamber music.

5. Bagatelle in C Major

This spirited Bagatelle bursts to life with a Mannheim Rocket – an energetic ascending figure that sets the tone for surprises ahead. Syncopations, sudden dynamics, hand swaps and comic gestures keep both performer and listener on their toes.

The C minor middle section, where the right hand carries an octave legato line can be tricky. Graham’s advice? Practise the line as single notes first to achieve smoothness, memorise the intervals and internalise the melodic shape before adding octaves!

The full set of videos lessons for all seven works in this set are now available on the Online Academy! Click here to watch the introduction or click here for the series index.