The immense second movement is in the subdominant key of A♭ major. It consists of a set of six variations and a coda. The first variation is in 128 meter with darker harmonies and quick changes in dynamics. The second variation increases the tempo to andante con moto and adjusts the meter to 44. Here, the two violins engage in a dialogue over staccato accompaniment. The third variation shifts to E major, enharmonically the flat submediant, and the tempo shifts to a hymn-like adagio molto espressivo. The fourth variation returns to 128 and the key of A♭ by dropping a half-step from E to the dominant note (E♭). This variation has a codetta which transitions the key to D♭ major in preparation for the next variation. The fifth variation is sotto voce and has been called a "mysterious episode" and begins in D♭ major and transitions to the parallel C♯ minor. The recapitulatory sixth variation returns to 128, presents only half of the theme and connects directly to the coda.

Date of composition 1825
Type String Quartet
Tonality E-flat Major
Catalogue Op. 127
Instruments Viola
Cello
2x Violin
Autotranslations beta Ludwig van Beethoven: Quatuor à cordes n°12 en mi bémol majeur, Op. 127
Ludwig van Beethoven: Quartetto d'archi n. 12 in mi bemolle maggiore, Op. 127
Ludwig van Beethoven: Streichquartett Nr. 12 Es-dur, Op. 127