The last five piano sonatas of Beethoven are some of the most sublime, spiritual and mysterious works ever composed for the piano. After a brief overview of his earlier sonatas, we will concentrate on an in-depth listening and discussion of each of them, including the towering 45 minute “Hammerklavier” Sonata, Op. 106 and the transcendent last sonata, Op. 111. Ears and enthusiasm are the only prerequisite. The course would be appropriate for both new and returning students.