Trio in B Flat, Op. 97 (Archduke Trio)

This work is universally and perhaps more commonly known as the 'Archduke' Trio because it is dedicated to the composer's patron Archduke Rudolph. Beethoven actually considered the Piano Trio in B flat, Op. 97, to be among hisfinest works. The critics obviously agreed with him, as the 'Archduke' is now hailed as the most popular piece of late Classical Piano trios, and the piece which finally elevated the Violin and Cello to a status equal to that ofthe Piano.