This piano concerto was completed with some interval after the first and second concertos, around the same time as the Symphony No. 3. It exhibits an even greater Beethovenian character than its predecessors, which might be attributed to the choice of C minor, a key characteristic of Beethoven, also found in the 'Pathétique' Sonata and the 'Fate' Symphony. In the 19th century, it was the most beloved and frequently performed of Beethoven's piano concertos.

First Movement: Allegro con brio, C minor, 4/4 time

It is highly interesting that the first theme anticipates the finale of the Symphony No. 5.

Second Movement: Largo, E major, 3/8 time

Instead of E-flat major, the relative major of the first movement, it surprisingly shifts to E major. It flows gently and beautifully.

Third Movement: Rondo, Allegro, 2/4 time, C minor

The rondo theme creates a unique tension through its opening descending diminished seventh. This theme appears in various keys, finally modulating to C major in the Presto section, concluding with brilliant virtuosic piano passages.