The following quote is from an article by cellist Steven Isserlis titled, ‘How I fell in love with Ludwig.’ Here’s the link: http://www.guardian.co.uk/music/2007/jan/12/classicalmusicandopera
In the article he comments on this second movement: The last sonata, in D major, takes off in other new directions. After the dramatic opening movement, Beethoven gives us, for the first time in these works, a full slow movement, a prayer that must surely be the most beautiful movement ever written for cello and piano.
‘the most beautiful movement ever written for cello and piano’ Wow. And that’s praise from a guy who plays the cello.
Beethoven’s 5th (and last) Cello Sonata in D maj. / second movement