Immerse yourself in the timeless genius of Ludwig van Beethoven with "Beethoven: Popular Piano Sonatas," a captivating collection of his most celebrated piano works. Released on January 1, 2012, under the Warner Classics label, this album spans a generous 2 hours and 28 minutes, offering a comprehensive journey through Beethoven's pianistic mastery.
The album features a selection of Beethoven's most renowned piano sonatas, including the dramatic and intense "Pathétique" Sonata No. 8, the ethereal "Moonlight" Sonata No. 14, the grand and heroic "Waldstein" Sonata No. 21, the poignant "Les Adieux" Sonata No. 26, the fiery "Appassionata" Sonata No. 23, the lively and charming Sonata No. 25, and the monumental "Hammerklavier" Sonata No. 29. Each sonata is a world unto itself, showcasing Beethoven's extraordinary range of expression, from tender lyricism to thunderous power.
This recording is a testament to Beethoven's enduring influence and his ability to communicate deep emotional and intellectual depths through his music. 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 clarity and precision of the performances bring out the intricate details and nuances of Beethoven's compositions, making this a truly exceptional addition to any music collection.
Beethoven: Piano Sonata No. 8 in C Minor, Op. 13 "Pathétique": I. Grave - Allegro di molto e con brioLudwig van Beethoven, Stephen Kovacevich
Beethoven: Piano Sonata No. 8 in C Minor, Op. 13 "Pathétique": II. Adagio cantabileLudwig van Beethoven, Stephen Kovacevich
Beethoven: Piano Sonata No. 8 in C Minor, Op. 13 "Pathétique": III. Rondo. AllegroLudwig van Beethoven, Stephen Kovacevich
Beethoven: Piano Sonata No. 14 in C-Sharp Minor, Op. 27 No. 2 "Moonlight": I. Adagio sostenutoLudwig van Beethoven, Stephen Kovacevich
Beethoven: Piano Sonata No. 14 in C-Sharp Minor, Op. 27 No. 2 "Moonlight": II. AllegrettoLudwig van Beethoven, Stephen Kovacevich
Beethoven: Piano Sonata No. 14 in C-Sharp Minor, Op. 27 No. 2 "Moonlight": III. Presto agitatoLudwig van Beethoven, Stephen Kovacevich
Beethoven: Piano Sonata No. 21 in C Major, Op. 53 "Waldstein": I. Allegro con brioLudwig van Beethoven, Stephen Kovacevich
Beethoven: Piano Sonata No. 21 in C Major, Op. 53 "Waldstein": II. Introduzione. Adagio moltoLudwig van Beethoven, Stephen Kovacevich
Beethoven: Piano Sonata No. 21 in C Major, Op. 53 "Waldstein": III. Rondo. Allegretto moderato - PrestissimoLudwig 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
Beethoven: Piano Sonata No. 23 in F Minor, Op. 57 "Appassionata": I. Allegro assaiLudwig van Beethoven, Stephen Kovacevich
Beethoven: Piano Sonata No. 23 in F Minor, Op. 57 "Appassionata": II. Andante con motoLudwig van Beethoven, Stephen Kovacevich
Beethoven: Piano Sonata No. 23 in F Minor, Op. 57 "Appassionata": III. Allegro ma non troppo - PrestoLudwig van Beethoven, Stephen Kovacevich
Beethoven: Piano Sonata No. 25 in G Major, Op. 79: I. Presto alla tedescaLudwig van Beethoven, Stephen Kovacevich
Beethoven: Piano Sonata No. 25 in G Major, Op. 79: II. AndanteLudwig van Beethoven, Stephen Kovacevich
Beethoven: Piano Sonata No. 25 in G Major, Op. 79: III. VivaceLudwig van Beethoven, Stephen Kovacevich
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