# Ludwig van Beethoven, cello excerpts

3 annotated excerpts; 3 on audition lists.

Classical

- [Beethoven: Symphony No. 5, I, opening](https://arcosounds.com/repertoire/cello/beethoven-5-i), The most famous four notes in Western music. Bass section plays in unison, total rhythmic clarity is everything. Intermediate; Classical; Bass clef. Standard audition excerpt.
- [Beethoven: Symphony No. 5, III, scherzo](https://arcosounds.com/repertoire/cello/beethoven-5-iii), The cello/bass fugato of the Trio, a notorious string excerpt for clarity, off-string articulation, and ensemble. Advanced; Classical; Bass clef. Standard audition excerpt.
- [Beethoven: Symphony No. 9, IV, low-string recit.](https://arcosounds.com/repertoire/cello/beethoven-9-iv), The cellos and basses speak, preparing the entry of the human voice. Every section of the world auditions on this. Audition; Classical; Bass clef. Standard audition excerpt.

Canonical source: https://arcosounds.com/repertoire/cello/composer/beethoven