Immerse yourself in the timeless genius of Ludwig van Beethoven with the captivating album "Beethoven: Piano Concertos & Appassionata." This extraordinary collection, released on February 7, 2010, by Urania, showcases Beethoven's mastery of classical piano music through a selection of his most renowned works.
The album features all five of Beethoven's piano concertos, each a testament to his innovative spirit and profound musical expression. From the exuberant energy of Piano Concerto No. 1 in C Major, Op. 15 to the majestic grandeur of Piano Concerto No. 5 in E-Flat Major, Op. 73, known as the "Emperor," these concertos span a range of emotions and technical brilliance. Each concerto is performed with meticulous artistry, bringing out the depth and complexity of Beethoven's compositions.
In addition to the concertos, the album includes the iconic Piano Sonata No. 23 in F Minor, Op. 57, famously titled the "Appassionata." This sonata is a cornerstone of Beethoven's piano repertoire, celebrated for its passionate intensity and technical demands. The three movements of the "Appassionata" are performed with a level of skill and emotional depth that highlights the sonata's enduring appeal.
With a total duration of 3 hours and 18 minutes, this album offers a comprehensive exploration of Beethoven's piano works. The performances are marked by their clarity, precision, and expressive power, making this a must-listen for both classical music enthusiasts and those new to Beethoven's oeuvre. Whether you are a seasoned listener or a curious newcomer, this album provides a rich and rewarding journey through the musical legacy of one of history's greatest composers.
(C) 2010 Urania
Tracks
Piano Concerto No. 1 in C Major, Op. 15: I. Allegro con brioLudwig van Beethoven, Wilhelm Kempff, Paul van Kempen, Berliner Philharmoniker
Piano Concerto No. 1 in C Major, Op. 15: II. LargoLudwig van Beethoven, Wilhelm Kempff, Paul van Kempen, Berliner Philharmoniker
Piano Concerto No. 1 in C Major, Op. 15: III. Rondo. AllegroLudwig van Beethoven, Wilhelm Kempff, Paul van Kempen, Berliner Philharmoniker
Piano Concerto No. 2 in in B-Flat Major, Op. 19: I. Allegro con brioLudwig van Beethoven, Wilhelm Kempff, Paul van Kempen, Berliner Philharmoniker
Piano Concerto No. 2 in in B-Flat Major, Op. 19: II. AdagioLudwig van Beethoven, Wilhelm Kempff, Paul van Kempen, Berliner Philharmoniker
Piano Concerto No. 2 in in B-Flat Major, Op. 19: III. Rondo: Molto allegroLudwig van Beethoven, Wilhelm Kempff, Paul van Kempen, Berliner Philharmoniker
Piano Concerto No. 3 in C Minor, Op. 37: I. Allegro con brioLudwig van Beethoven, Paul van Kempen, Wilhelm Kempff, Berliner Philharmoniker
Piano Concerto No. 3 in C Minor, Op. 37: II. LargoLudwig van Beethoven, Paul van Kempen, Wilhelm Kempff, Berliner Philharmoniker
Piano Concerto No. 3 in C Minor, Op. 37: III. Rondo, AllegroLudwig van Beethoven, Wilhelm Kempff, Paul van Kempen, Berliner Philharmoniker
Piano Concerto No. 4 in G Major, Op. 58: I. Allegro moderatoLudwig van Beethoven, Wilhelm Kempff, Paul van Kempen, Berliner Philharmoniker
Piano Concerto No. 4 in G Major, Op. 58: II. Andante con motoLudwig van Beethoven, Wilhelm Kempff, Paul van Kempen, Berliner Philharmoniker
Piano Concerto No. 4 in G Major, Op. 58: III. Rondo: VivaceLudwig van Beethoven, Wilhelm Kempff, Paul van Kempen, Berliner Philharmoniker
Piano Concerto No. 5 in E-Flat Major, Op. 73 - "Emperor": I. AllegroLudwig van Beethoven, Paul van Kempen, Wilhelm Kempff, Berliner Philharmoniker
Piano Concerto No. 5 in E-Flat Major, Op. 73 - "Emperor": II. Adagio un poco mossoLudwig van Beethoven, Paul van Kempen, Wilhelm Kempff, Berliner Philharmoniker
Piano Concerto No. 5 in E-Flat Major, Op. 73 - "Emperor": III. Rondo. AllegroLudwig van Beethoven, Paul van Kempen, Wilhelm Kempff, Berliner Philharmoniker
Piano Sonata No. 23 in F Minor, Op. 57 - "Appassionata": I. Allegro assaiLudwig van Beethoven, Paul van Kempen, Wilhelm Kempff, Berliner Philharmoniker
Piano Sonata No. 23 in F Minor, Op. 57 - "Appassionata": II. Andante con motoLudwig van Beethoven, Paul van Kempen, Wilhelm Kempff, Berliner Philharmoniker
Piano Sonata No. 23 in F Minor, Op. 57 - "Appassionata": III. Allegro ma non troppo - PrestoLudwig van Beethoven, Paul van Kempen, Wilhelm Kempff, Berliner Philharmoniker