Noctave
The piece
This rondo in C minor ends the "Pathétique" Sonata, published in Vienna in 1799 and dedicated to Prince Karl Lichnowsky; the title "Pathétique" appears on the first edition. The refrain, marked Allegro, returns four times, separated by contrasting episodes, among them a passage in A-flat major written as counterpoint, before a coda that ends with force.
The right hand sings the refrain legato while the left hand accompanies it with steady eighth notes, sometimes in broken octaves: keep them supple and discreet. The episodes call for quick scales and triplets that must stay even. Notice the changes of character, from the sung piano to the fortissimo chords, and prepare the hand shifts in the coda. Start at a reduced tempo and build up in steps, keeping every note clear.