Beethoven: Piano Concerto No. 3 & Haydn: Symphony No. 94

Immerse yourself in the timeless elegance of classical music with Wilhelm Kempff's 2008 album, "Beethoven: Piano Concerto No. 3 & Haydn: Symphony No. 94." This captivating collection showcases Kempff's mastery of the piano, accompanied by the esteemed Deutsches Symphonie-Orchester Berlin under the direction of Lorin Maazel.

The album opens with Beethoven's powerful Piano Concerto No. 3 in C Minor, Op. 37, featuring Kempff's own cadenza in the first movement. His interpretation is both dynamic and nuanced, bringing a fresh perspective to this beloved concerto. The second movement, "Largo," is rendered with a sense of profound introspection, while the final "Rondo. Allegro" is played with infectious energy and precision.

Following Beethoven, the album presents Haydn's Symphony No. 94 in G Major, known as the "Surprise" symphony. This four-movement work is a delightful blend of wit and sophistication, with Kempff and the orchestra delivering a performance that is both technically impressive and emotionally resonant. The "Surprise" symphony gets its nickname from the sudden fortissimo chord in the otherwise soft and gentle second movement, a playful touch that Haydn included to wake up any audience members who might have dozed off.

Recorded in 2008 and released under the Audite Musikproduktion label, this album is a testament to Kempff's enduring legacy as one of the most celebrated pianists of the 20th century. With a total runtime of 1 hour and 1 minute, it offers a rich and rewarding listening experience that highlights the genius of both Beethoven and Haydn. Whether you're a seasoned classical music enthusiast or a newcomer to the genre, this album is sure to captivate and inspire.