Hess 72 – Theme with the Beginning of a Variation for Piano

Manuscript and Dating

This fragment consists of a theme and the opening bars of a piano variation, located on page 159 of the Landsberg 6 sketchbook, part of the renowned Eroica Skizzenbuch. Based on handwriting and stylistic evidence, it can be dated to the year 1803, a time of intense compositional activity for Beethoven—including his work on the Eroica Symphony, Leonore, and numerous instrumental sketches.

Publication History

The piece was first edited and published by Willy Hess in his Supplemente zur Gesamtausgabe, Volume IX (1965), p. 24. It later appeared in the collection “12 Piano Miniatures from the Sketchbooks”, edited by Jos van der Zanden, published by Raptus Editions, Amsterdam (2000). In the Hess catalog, the work is listed under the German title: “Thema mit angefangener Variation für Klavier” (Theme with the Beginning of a Variation for Piano)

Artistic Revival

As part of the artistic initiative:

“Research Becomes Art – A New Life for the Unknown Works of Ludwig van Beethoven” This fragment was interpreted and recorded by pianist Emanuele Stracchi, aiming to bring Beethoven’s lesser-known manuscripts to life through performance and contextual analysis. Recording: Hess 072 – Thema mit angefangener Variation für Klavier Performed by: Emanuele Stracchi, piano. These artistic recordings aim to present Beethoven’s sketch material not merely as archaeological findings, but as expressive compositions worthy of contemporary performance.