Immerse yourself in the timeless genius of Ludwig van Beethoven with this captivating collection of his most celebrated piano works. Released on October 6, 2003, under the Warner Classics label, this album showcases Beethoven's unparalleled mastery of the classical piano repertoire, spanning a total duration of 1 hour and 10 minutes.
The album opens with the monumental Piano Sonata No. 29 in B-Flat Major, Op. 106, affectionately known as the "Hammerklavier." This sonata is a testament to Beethoven's innovative spirit and technical prowess, featuring four distinct movements that range from the exhilarating "Allegro" to the profound "Adagio sostenuto." Following this monumental work, the album presents the delightful 11 Bagatelles, Op. 119, a series of charming and varied pieces that showcase Beethoven's ability to convey deep emotion in concise musical forms.
The album concludes with the Piano Sonata No. 26 in E-Flat Major, Op. 81a, "Les Adieux," a sonata inspired by the composer's farewell to his beloved pupil, Archduke Rudolf. This sonata is divided into three movements, each evoking a different aspect of the farewell experience, from the poignant "Das Lebewohl" to the joyous "Das Wiedersehen."
Whether you are a seasoned classical music enthusiast or a newcomer to Beethoven's works, this album offers a rich and rewarding listening experience. The intricate compositions and masterful performances bring to life the enduring legacy of one of the most influential composers in history.
Beethoven: Piano Sonata No. 29 in B-Flat Major, Op. 106 "Hammerklavier": I. AllegroLudwig van Beethoven, Stephen Kovacevich
Beethoven: Piano Sonata No. 29 in B-Flat Major, Op. 106 "Hammerklavier": II. Scherzo. Assai vivaceLudwig van Beethoven, Stephen Kovacevich
Beethoven: Piano Sonata No. 29 in B-Flat Major, Op. 106 "Hammerklavier": III. Adagio sostenuto. Appassionato e con molto sentimentoLudwig van Beethoven, Stephen Kovacevich
Beethoven: Piano Sonata No. 29 in B-Flat Major, Op. 106 "Hammerklavier": IV. Introduzione. Largo - Fuga. Allegro risolutoLudwig van Beethoven, Stephen Kovacevich
Beethoven: 11 Bagatelles, Op. 119: No. 1 in G Minor, AllegrettoLudwig van Beethoven, Stephen Kovacevich
Beethoven: 11 Bagatelles, Op. 119: No. 2 in C Major, Andante con motoLudwig van Beethoven, Stephen Kovacevich
Beethoven: 11 Bagatelles, Op. 119: No. 3 in D Major, À l'allemandeLudwig van Beethoven, Stephen Kovacevich
Beethoven: 11 Bagatelles, Op. 119: No. 4 in A Major, Andante cantabileLudwig van Beethoven, Stephen Kovacevich
Beethoven: 11 Bagatelles, Op. 119: No. 5 in C Minor, RisolutoLudwig van Beethoven, Stephen Kovacevich
Beethoven: 11 Bagatelles, Op. 119: No. 6 in G Minor, Andante - AllegrettoLudwig van Beethoven, Stephen Kovacevich
Beethoven: 11 Bagatelles, Op. 119: No. 7 in C Major, Allegro, ma non troppoLudwig van Beethoven, Stephen Kovacevich
Beethoven: 11 Bagatelles, Op. 119: No. 8 in C Major, Moderato cantabileLudwig van Beethoven, Stephen Kovacevich
Beethoven: 11 Bagatelles, Op. 119: No. 9 in A Minor, Vivace moderatoLudwig van Beethoven, Stephen Kovacevich
Beethoven: 11 Bagatelles, Op. 119: No. 10 in A Major, AllegramenteLudwig van Beethoven, Stephen Kovacevich
Beethoven: 11 Bagatelles, Op. 119: No. 11 in B-Flat Major, Andante, ma non troppoLudwig van Beethoven, Stephen Kovacevich
Beethoven: Piano Sonata No. 26 in E-Flat Major, Op. 81a "Les Adieux": I. Das Lebewohl. Adagio - AllegroLudwig van Beethoven, Stephen Kovacevich
Beethoven: Piano Sonata No. 26 in E-Flat Major, Op. 81a "Les Adieux": II. Abwesenheit. Andante espressivoLudwig van Beethoven, Stephen Kovacevich
Beethoven: Piano Sonata No. 26 in E-Flat Major, Op. 81a "Les Adieux": III. Das Wiedersehen. VivacissimamenteLudwig van Beethoven, Stephen Kovacevich
Vinylscout