Beethoven: Piano Sonatas (Moonlight, Pathétique, Appassionata)

On this CD:

1. Piano Sonata No. 14 in C sharp minor ("Moonlight"), Op. 27/2
Composed by Ludwig van Beethoven
Performed by Daniel Chorzempa

2. Piano Sonata No. 8 in C minor ("Pathétique") Op. 13
Composed by Ludwig van Beethoven
Performed by Daniel Chorzempa

3. Piano Sonata No. 23 in F minor ("Appassionata") Op. 57
Composed by Ludwig van Beethoven
Performed by Daniel Chorzempa

Tracks:

Sonata No.1 In F Minor, Op.2 No.1: Allegro
Sonata No.1 In F Minor, Op.2 No.1: Adagio
Sonata No.1 In F Minor, Op.2 No.1: Menuetto: Allegretto
Sonata No.1 In F Minor, Op.2 No.1: Prestissimo
Sonata No.2 In A Major, Op.2 No.2: Allegro vivace
Sonata No.2 In A Major, Op.2 No.2: Largo appassionato
Sonata No.2 In A Major, Op.2 No.2: Scherzo: Allegretto
Sonata No.2 In A Major, Op.2 No.2: Rondo: Grazioso
Sonata No.3 In C Major, Op.2 No.3: Allegro con brio
Sonata No.3 In C Major, Op.2 No.3: Adagio
Sonata No.3 In C Major, Op.2 No.3: Scherzo: Allegro
Sonata No.3 In C Major, Op.2 No.3: Allegro assai

Tracks:

Sonata No.5 In C Minor, Op.10 No.1: Allegro molto e con brio
Sonata No.5 In C Minor, Op.10 No.1: Adagio molto
Sonata No.5 In C Minor, Op.10 No.1: Finale: Prestissimo
Sonata No.6 In F Major, Op.10 No.2: Allegro
Sonata No.6 In F Major, Op.10 No.2: Allegretto
Sonata No.6 In F Major, Op.10 No.2: Presto
Sonata No.7 In D Major, Op.10 No.3: Presto
Sonata No.7 In D Major, Op.10 No.3: Largo e mesto
Sonata No.7 In D Major, Op.10 No.3: Menuetto: Allegro
Sonata No.7 In D Major, Op.10 No.3: Rondo: Allegro
Sonata No.22 In F Major, Op.54: In tempo di Menuetto
Sonata No.22 In F Major, Op.54: Allegretto - Piu allegro

Tracks:

Sonata No.4 In E Flat Major, Op7: Allegro molto e con brio
Sonata No.4 In E Flat Major, Op7: Largo con gran espressione
Sonata No.4 In E Flat Major, Op7: Allegro
Sonata No.4 In E Flat Major, Op7: Rondo: Poco allegretto e grazioso
Sonata No.9 In E Major, Op.14 No.1: Allegro
Sonata No.9 In E Major, Op.14 No.1: Allegretto
Sonata No.9 In E Major, Op.14 No.1: Rondo: Allegro comodo
Sonata No.10 In G Major, Op.14 No.2: Allegro
Sonata No.10 In G Major, Op.14 No.2: Andante
Sonata No.10 In G Major, Op.14 No.2: Scherzo: Allegro assai

Tracks:

Sonata No.11 In B Flat Major, Op.22: Allegro con brio
Sonata No.11 In B Flat Major, Op.22: Adagio con molta espressione
Sonata No.11 In B Flat Major, Op.22: Menuetto
Sonata No.11 In B Flat Major, Op.22: Rondo: Allegretto
Sonata No.12 In A Flat Major, Op.26: Andante von variazioni
Sonata No.12 In A Flat Major, Op.26: Scherzo: Allegro molto
Sonata No.12 In A Flat Major, Op.26: Marcia funebre sulla morte d'un Eroe: Maestoso andante
Sonata No.12 In A Flat Major, Op.26: Allegro
Sonata No.13 In E Flat Major, Op.27 No.1: Andante - Allegro
Sonata No.13 In E Flat Major, Op.27 No.1: Allegro molto e vivace
Sonata No.13 In E Flat Major, Op.27 No.1: Adagio con espressione - Allegro vivace

Tracks:

SONATA NO.8 IN C MINOR, OP.13 'PATHETIQUE': Grave - Allegro molto e con brio
SONATA NO.8 IN C MINOR, OP.13 'PATHETIQUE': Adagio cantabile
SONATA NO.8 IN C MINOR, OP.13 'PATHETIQUE': Rondo: Allegro
Sonata No.14 InC Sharp Minor, Op.27 No.2 'Moonlight': Adagio sostenuto
Sonata No.14 InC Sharp Minor, Op.27 No.2 'Moonlight': Allegretto
Sonata No.14 InC Sharp Minor, Op.27 No.2 'Moonlight': Presto agitato - Adagio - Presto agitato
SONATA NO.23 IN F MINOR, OP.57 'APPASSIONATA': Allegro assai - Piu allegro
SONATA NO.23 IN F MINOR, OP.57 'APPASSIONATA': Andante con moto
SONATA NO.23 IN F MINOR, OP.57 'APPASSIONATA': Allegro ma non troppo - Presto

Tracks:

Sonata No.15 In D Major, Op.28 'Pastoral': Allegro
Sonata No.15 In D Major, Op.28 'Pastoral': Andante
Sonata No.15 In D Major, Op.28 'Pastoral': Scherzo: Allegro vivace
Sonata No.15 In D Major, Op.28 'Pastoral': Rondo: Allegro ma non troppo
Sonata No.21 In C Major, Op.53 'Waldstein': Allegro con brio
Sonata No.21 In C Major, Op.53 'Waldstein': Introduzione (Adagio molto) - Rondo (Allegretto moderato - Prestissimo)
Sonata No.19 In G Minor, Op.49 No.1: Andante
Sonata No.19 In G Minor, Op.49 No.1: Rondo: Allegro
Sonata No.20 In G Major, Op.49 No.2: Allegro ma non troppo
Sonata No.20 In G Major, Op.49 No.2: Tempo di menuetto

Tracks:

Sonata No. 16 In G Major, Op. 31 No. 1: Allegro vivace
Sonata No. 16 In G Major, Op. 31 No. 1: Adagio grazioso
Sonata No. 16 In G Major, Op. 31 No. 1: Rondo: Allegretto - Adagio - Presto
Sonata No. 17 In D Minor, Op. 31 No. 2 'The Tempest': Largo - Allegro
Sonata No. 17 In D Minor, Op. 31 No. 2 'The Tempest': Adagio
Sonata No. 17 In D Minor, Op. 31 No. 2 'The Tempest': Allegretto
Sonata No.18 In E Flat Major, Op.31 No.3: Allegro
Sonata No.18 In E Flat Major, Op.31 No.3: Scherzo: Allegretto vivace
Sonata No.18 In E Flat Major, Op.31 No.3: Menuetto: Moderato grazioso
Sonata No.18 In E Flat Major, Op.31 No.3: Presto con fuoco

Tracks:

Sonata No.24 In F Sharp Major, Op.78: Adagio cantabile - Allegro ma non troppo
Sonata No.24 In F Sharp Major, Op.78: Allegro vivace
Sonata No.25 in G major, Op.79: Presto alla tedesca
Sonata No.25 in G major, Op.79: Andante
Sonata No.25 in G major, Op.79: Vivace
Sonata No.26 In E Flat Major, Op.81a 'Les Adieux': Das Lebewohl (Les Adieux): Adagio - Allegro
Sonata No.26 In E Flat Major, Op.81a 'Les Adieux': Abwesenheit (L'Absence): Andante espressivo
Sonata No.26 In E Flat Major, Op.81a 'Les Adieux': Wiedersehn (Le Retour): Vivacissimamente - Poco andante - Tempo 1
Sonata No.27 In E Minor, Op.90: Mit Lebhaftigkeit und durchaus mit Empfindung und Ausdruck
Sonata No.27 In E Minor, Op.90: Nicht zu geschwind und sehr singbar vorzutragen

Tracks:

Sonata No.28 In A Major, Op.101: Allegretto ma non troppo
Sonata No.28 In A Major, Op.101: Vivace alla Marcia
Sonata No.28 In A Major, Op.101: Adagio, ma non troppo, con affetto - Tempo del primo pezzo - Allegro
Sonata No.29 In B Flat Major, Op.106 'Hammerklavier': Allegro
Sonata No.29 In B Flat Major, Op.106 'Hammerklavier': Scherzo: Assai vivace - Presto - Tempo 1
Sonata No.29 In B Flat Major, Op.106 'Hammerklavier': Adagio sostenuto
Sonata No.29 In B Flat Major, Op.106 'Hammerklavier': Largo - Allegro - Prestissimo - Allegro risoluto (Fuga a tre voci, con alcune licenze)

Tracks:

Sonata No.30 In E Major, Op.109: Vivace, ma non troppo - Adagio espressivo - Tempo 1
Sonata No.30 In E Major, Op.109: Prestissimo
Sonata No.30 In E Major, Op.109: Tema: Andante molto cantabile e espressivo - Variazioni 1-6
Sonata No.31 In A Flat Major, Op.110: Moderato cantabile, molto espressivo
Sonata No.31 In A Flat Major, Op.110: Allegro molto
Sonata No.31 In A Flat Major, Op.110: Adagio ma non troppo
Sonata No.31 In A Flat Major, Op.110: Fuga: Allegro ma non troppo - L'istesso tempo di arioso - L'istesso tempo della Fuga - Meno allegro
Sonata No.32 in C minor, op.111: Maestoso - Allegro con brio ed appassionato
Sonata No.32 in C minor, op.111: Arietta: Adagio molto semplice e cantabile - Variazioni

Customer Reviews:

Barenboim's Beethvoen.......2007-06-27

I heard Bachaus play all Beethoven recitals at Carnegie Hall, in NYC. At that time he was the acknowledged master of the Beethvoen Sonata. With Barenboim, the old order changeth, yielding place to new. These recordings have fire, tempestuousness and passion, all emotions that belong in Beethoven.

One of the very best ever.......2007-02-15

This set has to be experienced. The clarity of these performances is beyond belief. If it's not the best set of Beethoven Sonatas, it is certainly among the very best. Take for example the first movement of Sonata number 21. It is so easy to have a performer play all the notes just as Beethoven wrote them and yet leave the listener in a morass of confusion without the slightest idea of what he had in mind. Not here. The ideas pour forth in a white light that has to be experienced. It really has to be experienced!! I love these performances. I will play them until I die. Oh...and the recordings are technically excellent. At least when played through Levinson electronics and Maggies....superb!

dead in the water.......2007-01-12

Sorry, I just don't like Barenboim's renditions. Beethoven is my favourite composer, depending on my mood that is, and nothing moves me as his music can. But I just don't get Barenboim's renditions... doesn't do a thing for me. Something of Beethoven's depth and richness gets totally "lost in translation".

Better off finding a better performance of these if you really want to be "blown away". My favorite "Beethoven" conductor would have to be Herbert von Karajan; and as for individual pianists my all time favorite is Maurizio Pollini, whose performances are exquisite, in both technique and expression! If you are a music lover you should really check his work out if you haven't already. My favorite Beethoven CD by him is "Die Spaten Klaviersonaten" (Beethoven) by Deutsche Grammophon in their "legendary recordings" series. It is a real gem! (the sound quality is excellent also)

Sublime expression nourished by a colossal vision!.......2006-03-23

Thanks to this immense and untiring activity in the field of the orchestral direction, his vision as pianist has enriched himself quite a lot: Barenboim performs these well known Sonatas with a splendid architectural construction; according Schnabel `s tradition.

And that is a very remarkable good point in this musical moment where the pianist technique is eclipsing and even annulling the personal approach in the most of pianists all over the world. Honesty, conviction, vision and commitment dress those interpretations loaded of expression and personality.

In the great tradition of the great Beethovenian keyboard giants of the past, Daniel explores and plays every little bar with that well felt intensity of someone who in Beethoven `s there is much more than simple music. In Beethoven the music is not a goal by itself; but a revelation superior to any philosophy; all his musical legacy possess values that are placed of the standards. There is not art without second intention and that is precisely what Barenboim has made with this fabulous cycle of Beethoven Sonatas.

If you really want to listen remarkable performances far beyond of the trivial conventionalisms, go for this record.

Performed with great enthusiasm.......2004-05-16

This is classic early Barenboim (he was just 24 when he started recording this set in 1966). He is very enthusiastic and expressive (if you don't like him, he "takes liberties" and "shows off"). The slow movements are veerrry slow, and the fast ones really rip. Pianissimo is extremely soft, and fortissimo rattles the windows! [My wife insists that I wear headphones for late-night listening.]

Tracks:

Piano Sonata No. 8 In C Minor, Op. 13 (Pathetique): 1. Grave - Allegro di molto e con brio
Piano Sonata No. 8 In C Minor, Op. 13 (Pathetique): 2. Adagio cantabile
Piano Sonata No. 8 In C Minor, Op. 13 (Pathetique): 3. Rondo (Allegro)
Piano Sonata No. 23 In F Minor, Op. 57 (Appassionata): 1. Allegro assai
Piano Sonata No. 23 In F Minor, Op. 57 (Appassionata): 2. Andante con moto -
Piano Sonata No. 23 In F Minor, Op. 57 (Appassionata): 3. Allegro ma non troppo
Piano Sonata No. 14 In C Sharp Minor, Op. 27 No. 2 (Moonlight): 1. Adagio sostenuto -
Piano Sonata No. 14 In C Sharp Minor, Op. 27 No. 2 (Moonlight): 2. Allegretto
Piano Sonata No. 14 In C Sharp Minor, Op. 27 No. 2 (Moonlight): 3. Presto agitato

Customer Reviews:

The best...simply!.......2007-06-09

What more can I say....
I dont really know much about classical, and I wont pretend that I do, but to me, this is perfection!
Excellent service to as item arrived in good time!

This is not Arrau, this is Beethoven himself.......2006-07-19

First of all I would like to say, I have to disagree with a reviewer that says Arrau plays "too slow" this I can handle although I consider his speed is fine... but mostly when he says something like "he gives a romantic touch to these sonatas that were dedicated to men".

That is a huge blasphemy and here's why: Beethoven was a passionate man, I guess every Beethoven fan and student knows that, and if you still don't believe it just listen to his piano, violin and cello trios to see how much passion and romance there is involved. So it doesn't matter if he dedicated these sonatar (or any of his works) to a woman, a man or an alien, it is quite clear that whoever it was intended to, Beethoven would have probably execute it with passion and romance.

The execution of the Appassionata sonata is the ultimate execution. I need more words from other universe to describe how you can easly breeze into the composer's mind and actually feel what he felt and thought when he composed this piece. The 3rd movement is to me the best around and the best I've heard (from dozens of dozens), especially the last two minutes when it's clear the composer went drive mad. With other performers you will see that in these two minutes (when the piece reachis its climax) they will normally slow down which obviously a clear mistake and not what Beethoven intended). The last two minutes are to be played with madness, more madness, anger, more anger and all the passion you can put into those 88 keys. You can't slow down the climax of the piece ! That's why it is called Appassionata ! Such a beautiful piece.

The moonlight execution is the best I've heard too (with the exception of the 1st movement). Each one of the three movements take you to a mind state where you can feel how and what Beethoven felt about countess Giuletta Giucardi: love, joy and then hate, respectively. Just like the appasionata, the 3rd movement's performance is stunning. By the time you reach half of it, your mind will think you're listening to Beethoven.

Patetique is a good execution. I haven't really heard a notable performance, probably due to the fact of being one of Beethoven's earlier -more Mozartian/classisist- works. Still it is very good, and the movement that impresses me the most is the second.

Do your self a favor and get this CD. You will trash any other Beethoven Piano sonatas CD, and you will eventually look forward to buy the 32 piano sonata box set by Claudio Arrau -to listen to the man himself playing all his works-, which I proudly own and just like this disc, it is worth every single penny.

A very passionate and serious-minded Beethoven........2004-01-01

Claudio Arrau is not always an easy pianist to listen to. His playing is sometimes very irritating and at times can seem boring. Not everyone will agree with his Beethoven playing, and his playing in general, but many will be fascinated by his complex intellectuality. His Beethoven playing, particularly the sonatas, are some of his best and most interesting work. If anyone was to own one recording of Arrau's playing, I would surely suggest a Beethoven recording. His interpretations of these three popular sonatas are unorthodox but are given very passionate and interesting performances. Anyone studying or interested in these sonatas should listen to Arrau, the Appassionata especially is given an excellent performance.

This CD is highly recommended, it's an excellent lesson in Arrau's Beethoven playing.

Must-have if you like Beethoven.......2003-12-09

This is a disc you should buy immediately if you don't have Arrau's complete Beethoven sonatas set already. Arrau gives truly superb renditions of these three sonatas: the Pathetique is stormy and dramatic in its outer movements and intensely peaceful at the center, his Moonlight sheds a new light on this too often played sonata, but the real prize of the disc is the Appassionata, where Arrau plays with more angriness and drama than anyone I've yet heard. Hear how he assaults the chords of the third movement! These three sonatas, especially the last, are Arrau's territory and it shows in all aspects. You'd best get the whole set but for a good introduction this single disc is indispensable.

Exquisite, elegant, measured, and great........2003-11-18

It's wonderful to return to these works after an absence of 30 years. Familiar, but ... consider the andante con moto of No 23 in F Minor, Op 57... it begins quietly, measured pace, the low notes of the keyboard,
certain in its course, building slowly, then it moves into the middle range, so beautiful, so much beauty, bell like tone of the notes, exquisite touch of the pianist, as if reasoning with us, listen to me, listen to me, a sense of urgency, sensual urgency builds, playfulness, but the inexorable drive to climax, back to the beginning for the resolution, a pause, then ....
If there is anything more beautiful in the piano repertoire, show it to me.
Played by a musicians artist. A bargain.

Beethoven: The Piano Sonatas, Vol. 4: Sonatas Opp. 26, 27 & 28

Average customer rating:

Beethoven: The Piano Sonatas, Vol. 4: Sonatas Opp. 26, 27 & 28

Manufacturer: Ecm Records
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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Re: Pasolini
Piano Quintet in F Min / Complete String Quartets (1, 2, 3)

ASIN: B000PC6G6A
Release Date: 2007-05-22

Tracks:

Andante Con Variazioni
Scherzo. Allegro Molto
Marcia Funebre Sulla Morte D'un Eroe
Allegro
Andante - Allegro - Tempo I
Allegro Molto E Vivace
Adagio Con Espressione
Allegro Vivace
Adagio Sostenuto
Allegretto
Presto Agitato
Allegro
Andante
Scherzo. Allegro Vivace
Rondo. Allegro Ma Non Troppo

Beethoven: Favourite Piano Sonatas / Vladimir Ashkenazy

Average customer rating:

Beethoven: Favourite Piano Sonatas / Vladimir Ashkenazy
All the essentials on two discs
Pure genius, in composition and in performance
Impeccable - scholarly yet perfected performances
Excellent Double CD

Beethoven: Favourite Piano Sonatas / Vladimir Ashkenazy

Manufacturer: Decca
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

General | Classical | Styles | Music

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ASIN: B0000041LE
Release Date: 1997-08-26

Tracks:

Piano Sonata No. 14 In C Sharp Minor, Op. 27 No. 2 'Moonlight': I. Adagio sostenuto
Piano Sonata No. 14 In C Sharp Minor, Op. 27 No. 2 'Moonlight': II. Allegretto & Trio
Piano Sonata No. 14 In C Sharp Minor, Op. 27 No. 2 'Moonlight': III. Presto agitato
Piano Sonata No. 26 In E Flat Major, Op. 81a 'Les Adieux': I Adagio - Allegro
Piano Sonata No. 26 In E Flat Major, Op. 81a 'Les Adieux': II Andante espressivo
Piano Sonata No. 26 In E Flat Major, Op. 81a 'Les Adieux': III Vivacissimamente
Piano Sonata No. 17 In D Minor, Op. 31 No. 2 'Tempest': I Largo - Allegro
Piano Sonata No. 17 In D Minor, Op. 31 No. 2 'Tempest': II Adagio
Piano Sonata No. 17 In D Minor, Op. 31 No. 2 'Tempest': III Allegretto
Piano Sonata No. 8 In C Minor, Op. 13 'Pathetique': I Grave - Allegro di molto e con brio
Piano Sonata No. 8 In C Minor, Op. 13 'Pathetique': II Adagio cantabile
Piano Sonata No. 8 In C Minor, Op. 13 'Pathetique': III Rondo: Allegro

Tracks:

Piano Sonata No. 23 In F Minor, Op. 57 'Appassionata': I Allegro assai
Piano Sonata No. 23 In F Minor, Op. 57 'Appassionata': II Andante con moto
Piano Sonata No. 23 In F Minor, Op. 57 'Appassionata': III Allegro ma non troppo
Piano Sonata No. 15 In D Major, Op. 28 'Pastoral': I Allegro
Piano Sonata No. 15 In D Major, Op. 28 'Pastoral': II Andante
Piano Sonata No. 15 In D Major, Op. 28 'Pastoral': III Scherzo & Trio: Allegro vivace
Piano Sonata No. 15 In D Major, Op. 28 'Pastoral': IV Rondo: Allegro ma non troppo
Piano Sonata No. 21 In C Major, Op. 53 'Waldstein': I Allegro con brio
Piano Sonata No. 21 In C Major, Op. 53 'Waldstein': II Introduzione: Molto adagio
Piano Sonata No. 21 In C Major, Op. 53 'Waldstein': III Rondo: Allegretto moderato - Prestissimo

Customer Reviews:

Beethoven: Favourite Piano Sonatas / Vladimir Ashkenazy.......2007-07-09

Good technique and good sound. The CD contains the most known sonatas and it was a hard task to deliver them in a fresh yet traditional form.

All the essentials on two discs.......2007-05-29

Other reviewers have written sufficiently on the quality of this purchase; I don't need to add to it, only concur with them that this is a fabulous and inexpensive package. My only criticism is of the sound quality...and maybe the performance of the 14th. It's a minor issue though. No other package that I know of gives the buyer all the essential sonatas on two discs of such high quality. A great buy.

Pure genius, in composition and in performance.......2007-05-20

Disclaimer: I'm not an expert on classical music, much less on classical music performances, so my reviews represent a newcomer's take on classical CDs. Take that for what it's worth.

This recording of Beethoven's sonatas was the first classical CD I ever bought, and it remains my favorite. The compositions are heart-rending. The performance is excellent. This is an album equally great both for classically-uninitiated and for longtime veterans.

Ashkenazy's performance makes heavy use of dynamics, from near-inaudible pianissimos to shattering fortissimos. Some people may dislike this--it's not an album to pop into your walkman and ignore--but I found that it gave the sonatas a richer emotional resonance. As the piano goes from a quiet, singing tone to harsh clanging, so one's heart follows. This CD (or rather, CDs) is a must-buy.

Impeccable - scholarly yet perfected performances.......2006-08-08

I've listened to Ashkenazy's renditions of these pieces for quite some time of this disk, and I was extremely impressed with his force. He does not skimp on volume when volume is needed (the brutal chords in the third movement of Moonlight is what I was really looking for). I've also used his rendition of the Pathetique as a guide for my own learning of the piece. The man's technique is absolutely beyond belief, his clarity, his voicing, his touch, it fits so perfectly with these fine works by Beethoven. The Hammerklavier is sadly missing, but that is to be expected because of its length. Overall, these are powerful recordings and I highly recommend them. I hope to reach such a pinnacle of artistry some day in my own playing.

Excellent Double CD .......2006-04-25

This double CD is exquisite. Vladimir Ashkenazy plays Beethoven with sensitivity and dynamic intensity. The quality of the CD is excellent, the playing sublime, and the value outstanding.

This double CD has quickly become one of my favorites. I originally heard it on the local NPR classical stations, bought the CD here, and love it!

I just can't think of a single deficiency in the CD. I think this is just an excellent CD at any price; at the price here, it is a real bargain.

Average customer rating:

The final testament of a great classicist
Wilhelm Kempff Plays the Beethoven Piano Sonatas
full of artistry, very nice.
Which One To Get, That Is The Question
essential

Beethoven: The Complete Piano Sonatas

Manufacturer: Deutsche Grammophon
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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ASIN: B000001GCC
Release Date: 1991-07-12

Tracks:

Sonata No. 1, Op. 2 In F Minor: 1. Allegro - Beethoven
Sonata No. 1, Op. 2 In F Minor: 2. Adagio - Beethoven
Sonata No. 1, Op. 2 In F Minor: 3. Menuetto. Allegretto - Beethoven
Sonata No. 1, Op. 2 In F Minor: 4. Prestissimo - Beethoven
Sonata No. 2, Op. 2 In A Major: 1. Allegro vivace - Beethoven
Sonata No. 2, Op. 2 In A Major: 2. Largo appassionato - Beethoven
Sonata No. 2, Op. 2 In A Major: 3. Scherzo. Allegretto - Beethoven
Sonata No. 2, Op. 2 In A Major: 4. Rondo. Grazioso - Beethoven
Sonata No. 3, Op. 2 In C Major: 1. Allegro con brio - Beethoven
Sonata No. 3, Op. 2 In C Major: 2. Adagio - Beethoven
Sonata No. 3, Op. 2 In C Major: 3. Scherzo. Allegro - Beethoven
Sonata No. 3, Op. 2 In C Major: 4. Allegro assai - Beethoven

Tracks:

Sonata No. 5, Op. 10 In C Minor: 1. Allegro molto e con brio - Beethoven
Sonata No. 5, Op. 10 In C Minor: 2. Adagio molto - Beethoven
Sonata No. 5, Op. 10 In C Minor: 3. Finale. Prestissimo - Beethoven
Sonata No. 6, Op. 10 In F Major: 1. Allegro - Beethoven
Sonata No. 6, Op. 10 In F Major: 2. Allegretto - Beethoven
Sonata No. 6, Op. 10 In F Major: 3. Presto - Beethoven
Sonata No. 7, Op. 10 In D Major: 1. Presto - Beethoven
Sonata No. 7, Op. 10 In D Major: 2. Largo e mesto - Beethoven
Sonata No. 7, Op. 10 In D Major: 3. Menuetto. Allegro - Beethoven
Sonata No. 7, Op. 10 In D Major: 4. Rondo. Allegro - Beethoven

Tracks:

Sonata No. 4, Op. 7 In E Flat Major: 1. Allegro molto e con brio
Sonata No. 4, Op. 7 In E Flat Major: 2. Largo, con gran espressione
Sonata No. 4, Op. 7 In E Flat Major: 3. Allegro
Sonata No. 4, Op. 7 In E Flat Major: 4. Rondo. Poco allegretto e grazioso
Sonata No. 8, Op. 13 'Pathetique' In C Minor: 1. Grave - Allegro di molto e con brio
Sonata No. 8, Op. 13 'Pathetique' In C Minor: 2. Adagio cantabile
Sonata No. 8, Op. 13 'Pathetique' In C Minor: 3. Rondo. Allegro
Sonata No. 9, Op. 14 In E Major: 1. Allegro
Sonata No. 9, Op. 14 In E Major: 2. Allegretto
Sonata No. 9, Op. 14 In E Major: 3. Rondo. Allegro comodo
Sonata No. 10, Op. 14 In G Major: 1. Allegro
Sonata No. 10, Op. 14 In G Major: 2. Andante
Sonata No. 10, Op. 14 In G Major: 3. Scherzo. Allegro assai

Tracks:

Sonata No. 11, Op. 22 In B Flat Major: 1. Allegro con brio
Sonata No. 11, Op. 22 In B Flat Major: 2. Adagio con molta espressione
Sonata No. 11, Op. 22 In B Flat Major: 3. Menuetto
Sonata No. 11, Op. 22 In B Flat Major: 4. Rondo. Allegretto
Sonata No. 12, Op. 26 In A Flat Major: 1. Andante con Variazioni
Sonata No. 12, Op. 26 In A Flat Major: 2. Scherzo. Allegro molto
Sonata No. 12, Op. 26 In A Flat Major: 3. Marcia funebre sulla morte d'un Eroe
Sonata No. 12, Op. 26 In A Flat Major: 4. Allegro
Sonata No. 13, Op. 27 In E Flat Major: 1. Andante - Allegro - Tempo I - attaca:
Sonata No. 13, Op. 27 In E Flat Major: 2. Allegro molto e vivace - attaca:
Sonata No. 13, Op. 27 In E Flat Major: 3. Adagio con espressione - attaca:
Sonata No. 13, Op. 27 In E Flat Major: 4. Allegro vivace
Sonata No. 14, Op. 27 'Mondschein-Sonate' In C Sharp Minor: 1. Adagio sostenuto - attaca:
Sonata No. 14, Op. 27 'Mondschein-Sonate' In C Sharp Minor: 2. Allegretto - attaca:
Sonata No. 14, Op. 27 'Mondschein-Sonate' In C Sharp Minor: 3. Presto agitato

Tracks:

Sonata No. 16, Op. 31 In G Major: 1. Allegro vivace - L.V. Beethoven
Sonata No. 16, Op. 31 In G Major: 2. Adagio grazioso - L.V. Beethoven
Sonata No. 16, Op. 31 In G Major: 3. Rondo. Allegretto - L.V. Beethoven
Sonata No. 17, Op. 31 'Sturm-Sonate' In D Minor: 1. Largo - Allegro - L.V. Beethoven
Sonata No. 17, Op. 31 'Sturm-Sonate' In D Minor: 2. Adagio - L.V. Beethoven
Sonata No. 17, Op. 31 'Sturm-Sonate' In D Minor: 3. Allegretto - L.V. Beethoven
Sonata No. 18, Op. 31 In E Flat Major: 1. Allegro - L.V. Beethoven
Sonata No. 18, Op. 31 In E Flat Major: 2. Scherzo. Allegretto vivace - L.V. Beethoven
Sonata No. 18, Op. 31 In E Flat Major: 3. Menuetto. Moderato e grazioso - L.V. Beethoven
Sonata No. 18, Op. 31 In E Flat Major: 4. Presto con fuoco - L.V. Beethoven

Tracks:

Sonata No.15, Op. 28 'Pastorale' In D Major: 1. Allegro
Sonata No.15, Op. 28 'Pastorale' In D Major: 2. Andante
Sonata No.15, Op. 28 'Pastorale' In D Major: 3. Scherzo. Allegro vivace
Sonata No.15, Op. 28 'Pastorale' In D Major: 4. Rondo. Allegro, ma non troppo
Sonata No. 19, Op. 49 In G Minor: 1. Andante
Sonata No. 19, Op. 49 In G Minor: 2. Rondo. Allegro
Sonata No. 20, Op. 49 In G Major: 1. Allegro, ma non troppo
Sonata No. 20, Op. 49 In G Major: 2. Tempo di Menuetto
Sonata No.21, Op. 53 'Waldstein-Sonate' In C Major: 1. Allegro con brio
Sonata No.21, Op. 53 'Waldstein-Sonate' In C Major: 2. Introduzione. Adagio molto - attaca:
Sonata No.21, Op. 53 'Waldstein-Sonate' In C Major: 3. Rondo. Allegretto moderato
Sonata No. 23, Op. 57 'Apassionata' In F Minor: 1. In tempo d'un Menuetto
Sonata No. 23, Op. 57 'Apassionata' In F Minor: 2. Allegretto

Tracks:

Sonata No. 23, Op. 57 'Appasionata' In F Minor: 1. Allegro assai
Sonata No. 23, Op. 57 'Appasionata' In F Minor: 2. Andante con moto - attaca:
Sonata No. 23, Op. 57 'Appasionata' In F Minor: 3. Allegro, ma non troppo - Presto
Sonata No. 24, Op. 78 In F Sharp Major: 1. Adagio cantabile - Allegro, ma non troppo
Sonata No. 24, Op. 78 In F Sharp Major: 2. Allegro vivace
Sonata No. 25, Op. 79 In G Major: 1. Presto alla tedesca
Sonata No. 25, Op. 79 In G Major: 2. Andante
Sonata No. 25, Op. 79 In G Major: 3. Vivace
Sonata No. 26, Op. 81a 'Les Adieux' In E Flat Major: 1. Das Lebewohl (Les Adieux): Adagio - Allegro
Sonata No. 26, Op. 81a 'Les Adieux' In E Flat Major: 2. Abwesenheit (L'Absence): Andante espressivo
Sonata No. 26, Op. 81a 'Les Adieux' In E Flat Major: 3. Das Wiedersehn (Le Retour): Vivacissimamente
Sonata No. 27, Op. 90 In E Minor: 1. Mit Lebhaftigkeit und durchaus mit Empfindung und Ausdruck
Sonata No. 27, Op. 90 In E Minor: 2. Nicht zu geschwind und sehr singbar vorzutragen

Tracks:

Sonata No. 28, Op. 101 In A Major: 1. Etwas lebhaft und mit der innigsten Empfindung: Allegretto, ma non troppo
Sonata No. 28, Op. 101 In A Major: 2. Lebhaft, marschmassig: Vivace alla Marcia
Sonata No. 28, Op. 101 In A Major: 3. Langsam und sehnsuchtsvoll: Adagio, ma non troppo, con affetto - attaca:
Sonata No. 28, Op. 101 In A Major: 4. Geschwinde, doch nicht zu sehr und mit Entschlossenheit: Allegro
Sonata No. 29, Op. 106 In B Flat Major: 1. Allegro
Sonata No. 29, Op. 106 In B Flat Major: 2. Scherzo. Assai vivace
Sonata No. 29, Op. 106 In B Flat Major: 3. Adagio sostenuto. Appasionato e con molto sentimento
Sonata No. 29, Op. 106 In B Flat Major: 4. Largo - Allegro risoluto

Tracks:

Sonata No. 30, Op. 109 In E Major: 1. Vivace, ma non troppo - L.V. Beethoven
Sonata No. 30, Op. 109 In E Major: 2. Prestissimo - L.V. Beethoven
Sonata No. 30, Op. 109 In E Major: 3. Gesangvoll, mit innigster Empfindung (Andante molto cantabile ed espressivo) - L.V. Beethoven
Sonata No. 31, Op. 110 In A Flat Major: 1. Moderato cantabile molto espressivo - L.V. Beethoven
Sonata No. 31, Op. 110 In A Flat Major: 2. Allegro molto - L.V. Beethoven
Sonata No. 31, Op. 110 In A Flat Major: 3. Adagio, ma non troppo - Fuga. Allegro, ma non troppo - L.V. Beethoven
Sonata No. 32, Op. 111 In C Minor: 1. Maestoso - Allegro con brio ed appassionato - L.V. Beethoven
Sonata No. 32, Op. 111 In C Minor: 2. Arietta. Adagio molto semplice e cantabile - L.V. Beethoven

Amazon.com

Wilhelm Kempff was the premier German pianist of the postwar period, so it's no surprise that he was considered one of the supreme interpreters of Beethoven. He recorded complete sets of the sonatas and concertos twice, and just about all the rest of the chamber music with piano as well. Kempff was a classicist by nature, and his approach to Beethoven was clear and poised rather than impulsive, but it was never lacking in sheer power or virtuosity when necessary. His last cycle of Beethoven sonatas is rightly regarded as his musical testament. Even if the mono recordings offered a few more exciting moments in a couple of works, you can't go wrong here--there isn't a dud in the lot. --David Hurwitz

Customer Reviews:

The final testament of a great classicist.......2005-11-10

I waited a long time before finally buying this. I already had Gilels, Barenboim, Schnabel, Richter(for almost all),Annie fischer(a damn fine set also!) Brendel, and Arrau. I have always held gilels monumental set in the highest regard for its mixture of respect and power, beauty and ferocity. I knew that the Kempff box had ggod things, but after all these former sets, what knew could be said(similar to what i thought about michelangeli before i heard his op 2\3 and debussy preludes) But this set kept popping up in my life. Over and over respectable musicians kept hinting that this was the set to go for, a modern answer to schnabel's initial recording. Finally I bought it and my only regret is that i didnt succumb to it sooner. Kempff is, in my mind, not the most exciting of pianist's, but he everything that our modern school is not, in the best sense of the word. His sound and touch is crystalline, his authority over the notes unequalled. There isnt any of these sonata's i dont turn to when i want to investigate them for myself with score at hand, which in a word, can be described as revelatory. Dont hesitate like I did. Who knows maybe, in this age of classical deprecation, it may disappear before you had the chance. It is the end all of Beethoven interpretation. It lacks the machismo of Gilels, and Richter for that matter, but what it lacks in the thunder it makes up for in the calm of the storm.

Wilhelm Kempff Plays the Beethoven Piano Sonatas.......2005-08-17

Beethoven's "Tagebuch" includes the following famous entry: "The starry heavens above, the moral law within -- Kant!" Beethoven was alluding to Kant's statement in the "Critique of Practical Reason" of the two things that filled him with awe. But, in a simple way, Beethoven's statement could be read to show two related ways of understanding his music: the first as heroic, heaven-storming, and outwardly directed, and the second as inward, reflective, and meditative. Some of Beethoven's music can be seen as occupying on or the other end of the polarity. Much of the music somehow occupies both ends.

The same holds true as a rough approach to the performance of Beethoven's music -- including the 32 piano sonatas. Some artists emphasize the dramatic, rugged and virtuosic characteristics of the sonatas while others focus upon the music's inward and introspective qualities. The great German pianist Wilhelm Kempff's classic recording of the complete piano sonatas is clearly within the latter approach. Kempff (1895 -- 1991) recorded the complete Beethoven sonata-cycle twice, the first time in the 1950s and the second time in the 1960s. I had the original version on LP and purchased the CD set when LPs became obsolete. I recently had the opportunity to relisten to Kempff's renditions of the sonatas in their entirety.

Kempff's readings of the sonatas are highly personal and introspective. His tempos tend to be slow and fluid, the pedal is used a great deal, phrasing is highly legato, and volume is, for the most part, subdued and restrained. He offers a metaphysical, thoughtful reading of Beethoven which probes within. It is a moving and convincing way of rendering the sonatas, and I came away from my experience with the set over the past several days with a renewed devotion to this music. I have attempted about half of the sonatas myself over the years on the piano.

Beethoven's sonatas date from his youthful years in Bonn before his 1792 move to Vienna (the two sonatas of opus 49) to about 1822 (opus 111), five years before the composer's death. Thus, they occupied Beethoven for almost the entirety of his creative life. In listening to this complete set, the listener can follow Beethoven's development essentially chronologically and learn more first-hand about the sonatas and about the changes in Beethoven's styles of composition than can be gained from reading many studies.

Listeners interested in a complete set of the Beethoven sonatas will probably have some familiarity with some of the better-known
named sonatas, such as the "Pathetique", opus 13, the "Moonlight" opus 27 no. 2, the "Waldstein", opus 53, or the "Appassionata", opus 57. After falling in love with some of these works, it will be time for the listener to explore the entire series.

Kempff brings his own personal and introspective readings to each of these familar works. I think he does best with the rondo finale of the "Waldstein," with the "Moonlight" sonata, and with the two final movements of the "Tempest", opus 31 no. 2. His readings of these familiar works on the whole will offer fresh insight into these great sonatas.

But the greatest attraction of this set is the opportunity it provides to explore some of Beethoven's less frequently performed works. Again, Kempff is at his best in works of an introspective character. Thus, those coming to the sonata-cycle for the first time will enjoy his performances of the opus 26 sonata, with the opening variations and the celebrated funeral march, of opus 78, 79, and 81a ("Les Adieux"), of opus 90, and of opus 101, 109, 110, and the great end to the series, opus 111. Opus 90, 101, and 109 are particular favorites of mine, and Kempff plays them beautifully.

There is yet another group of sonatas that also receive excellent readings on the set. This group includes two excellent ambitious early works, opus 2 no. 3 and opus 7 (another favorite), the three sonatas of opus 10, the under-appreciated opus 22, the companion to the more famous "Moonlight" sonata, opus 27 no. 1, opus 31 no. 3 and the enigmatic opus 54, sandwiched between the "Waldstein" and the "Appassionata". The magisterial and heroic "Hammerklavier" sonata, opus 106, is in a class by itself. Each listeners's choices and fovorites among the 32 will vary and change with time and repeated hearings. This collection is an excellent introduction to all of them.

There are many recordings of the set of 32 sonatas and many approaches to the interpretation of Beethoven. His music is broader and deeper than any single reading. I have lived with my set of Kempff for a long time and am still moved and inspired by his playing of this inexhaustible music. Listeners wanting to get to know this great body of work will find much to cherish in these performances by Wilhelm Kempff.

Robin Friedman

full of artistry, very nice........2005-06-06

Among the great pianists who played Beethoven's sonatas, I love Kempff and Gilels most. Kempff's play is colorful(also with cleaness), while Gilels's play is clean. Of course,if you only prefer highly keyboard technique, Pollini is a better choice.

I think, Kempff was born not only as a great pianist, but also as a musical artist. listen to Kempff just like listen to a small orchestra(among instruments, only piano can do this). His left hand accompanied very well and his right hand song nicely. Some one may say Kempff lacks energetics, but I prefer his style---just like a stream flows naturally, accompanied with birds and flowers.

unlike some energetically played pianists, I never get tired in listening to Kempff. Though those CDs was recorded in 60s, the sonic quality is good enough. highly recommended.

Which One To Get, That Is The Question.......2005-02-10

For those who are not too familiar with Kempff, he is generally regarded as one of the most reputed Beethoven interpreter after Schnabel. Gulda was supposed to succeed them and was somehow stopped short. In Kempff, just like most pianists of the older generation, there is a strong element of improvisation, an element in the making of music which make him sound so fresh and spontaneous which left even Brendel way behind. Furthermore, his playing is so inspired that it never fails to remind us of some transcending church music.

Having said that, Kempff even in the 50s, was never quite as dynamic as Gulda; whereas some may instead find Schnabel's Beethoven even more instructive and not at all less inspired. But Schnabel's are all historic recordings. My no.1 choice for these sonatas is always Backhaus (Decca, in wonderful stereo sound), for some may find Arrau's early Beethoven sonatas boring and Gilel's (which is not exactly a whole cycle in any event) not soulful enough, however much conviction he had for them. And to be honest, I have never finished Brendel's and I have never even tried Ashkenazy's Beethoven except his piano trio with Perlman and Harell and somehow I just stopped there...

Roughly speaking, Kempff's 50s cycle is more energetic, fiery and forceful, wheras his 60s is more colourful, more sublime, and with more subtleties. But that doesn't mean he was off his peak or insufficiently fiery (unlike Schnabel whose first cycle is more preferable than his second cycle recorded in the 50s). Being a complete musician as well as a remarkable composer, there was still some obvious development in his music making even between these two cycles which makes him fairly and squarely an authoritative alternative even to Backhaus: another reason that we should try to listen to both.

And as far as the recorded sound is concerned, there is the difference of more than one whole generation, so that the ordinary music lovers may not find the 50s recording delightful or acceptable at all; whereas few could really complain against the sound of the 60s.

So, if you are a pianist, or if you are a fan of Kempff, you probably will get both his 50s and 60s recordings: for like most great pianists or indeed most great musicians, every time they play, it is going to be different and they are all instructive and inspiring in their own way. I myself grapped both. But if your emphasis is on the early sonatas or just for general enjoyment or even for the last sonatas, it is better to get the 60s.

essential.......2004-06-02

what else can you say about kempff that isn't said before? this is the best beethoven ever record, he has a magic touch and this sets clearly shows it off. i have both recordings of his beethoven sonatas (1951 & 1964) as well as his schumann, brahms, schubert, bach, mozart, liszt etc and would recomand them all... enjoy the piano master

Arthur Rubinstein: Ludwig Van Beethoven Piano Sonatas

Average customer rating:

Rubinstein: Favorite Beethoven Sonatas
Flawless Renditions of Familiar Pieces
An amateur takes pleasure
Loved for his elegant style, Rubenstein applies it to Beethoven
Excellent recordings

Arthur Rubinstein: Ludwig Van Beethoven Piano Sonatas

Manufacturer: RCA
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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Beethoven: Piano Sonatas

ASIN: B000031WBZ
Release Date: 2000-10-10

Tracks:

Son No.8 in c, Op.13, 'Pathetique': Grave; Allegro Molto E Con Brio
Son No.8 in c, Op.13, 'Pathetique': Adagio Cantabile
Son No.8 in c, Op.13, 'Pathetique': Rondo: Allegro
Son No.14 in c#, Op.27 No.2, 'Moonlight': Adagio Sostenuto
Son No.14 in c#, Op.27 No.2, 'Moonlight': Allegretto
Son No.14 in c#, Op.27 No.2, 'Moonlight': Presto Agitato
Son No.23 in f, Op.57, 'Appassionata': Allegro Assai
Son No.23 in f, Op.57, 'Appassionata': Andante Con Moto
Son No.23 in f, Op.57, 'Appassionata': Allegro, Ma Non Troppo
Son No.26 in E flat, Op.81a, 'Les Adieux': Les Adieux: Adagio; Allegro
Son No.26 in E flat, Op.81a, 'Les Adieux': L'Absence: Andante Expressivo
Son No.26 in E flat, Op.81a, 'Les Adieux': Le Retour: Vivacissimamente

Customer Reviews:

Rubinstein: Favorite Beethoven Sonatas.......2007-06-11

I can't say enough about Rubinstein's interpretation. These are my favorite sonatas and I worship Beethoven. I also have these sonatas done by Brendle, Ashkanazi, Kemph, Buchbinder, Horowitz, and Gould, but Rubinstein does them best. Out of five stars, I would give Rubinstein ten. Although the recording is old, it is well done and does not detract at all from the performance. My only regret is that Rubenstein did not record the rest of the Beethoven sonatas.

Flawless Renditions of Familiar Pieces.......2007-03-14

The 4 Sonatas represented here are probably among the most familiar of all of Beethoven's work to the general listening public. They are beautifully rendered by Arthur Rubenstein in a recording of very good quality. This is an ideal purchase for someone who is seeking an introduction to Beethoven's work since the music is highly accessable and the price is very affordable. Rubenstein's playing is basically straightforward and sensitive, perfectly suited to the 4 selections presented here.

An amateur takes pleasure .......2006-12-28

I do not know classical music in the way that many of the people who have reviewed this work do. I cannot compare Rubinstein's performances with other pianists. I cannot analyze the technical qualities of his playing. I cannot really be a judge of the work at the level that most listeners of classical music would like.
I can however say that the deep pleasure given by this work comes in part of hearing familiar 'classical music' replayed. It comes too out of certain qualities of the playing, its grace, its lightness, its moving depth, its clear rushes of excitement.
One of the greatest of all pianists playing some of the greatest piano music ever written cannot help but inspire and move the listener.

Loved for his elegant style, Rubenstein applies it to Beethoven.......2006-06-01

When great pianists come to the the sacred Beethoven sonatas, they diverge into two camps. The first camp tries to serve Beethoven first, the second imposes a 'personal' style with secondary attention to the composer. In the first camp everyone would put Schnabel, Serkin, Annie Fischer, Wilhelm Kempff, Murray Perahia, and perhaps nowadays Andras Schiff and Leif Ove Andsnes. In the second would be Horowitz, Richter, Cortot, Rubenstein, and a panoply of earlier greats in the Lisztian romantic tradition. These were the unabashed stylists, whose fans want to hear a pianist more than they want to hear piano music.

Rubenstein's fans were particularly devoted to him--he was that rare thing, a loable human being who also happened to be a virtuoso--and since he was less agressive than Richter and less flamboyant than Horowitz, Rubenstein's gentle, sophisticated way with Beethoven, which could evoke Paris over Vienna, felt more agreeable. But it's not selfless by any means. Rubenstein is the anti-Serkin, bringing the same dreaminess to the Moonlight that he brings to Chopin, smoothing over the outbursts in the Appassionate so that it will be more civilized (but losing half of Beethoven's revolutionary genius in the bargain), and generally giving his audiences what they want.

On its own terms, this CD is a lovely example of the Rubenstein method. Personally, I side with the first camp, but I can see why many listeners so admire this epitmoe of sophisticated elegance who never slips into vulgarity or blatant showmanship.

Excellent recordings.......2006-05-26

I love these recordings! I think the interpretations Rubinstein offers are different (which is a good thing) from the "Beethoven specialists," which is very refreshing. This is especially evident in the "Pathetique" Sonata (my personal favorite). I have recordings of Ashkenazy, Pollini, Brendel, and Kempff, but the Rubinstein is my favorite (Interestingly enough, I'd say Ashkenazy is next on that list).

His "Moonlight" and "Les Adieux" performances are among my favorite recordings of those particular sonatas as well. "Appassionata," which he recorded the most, is still good, but better versions of him playing it exist.

This CD is worth the money.

Average customer rating:

Great Performances, Nice Price!

Beethoven: Piano Sonatas [Germany]
Artur Schnabel
Manufacturer: Documents
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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Milstein (4CD Set)

ASIN: B000AAVCYS
Release Date: 2006-05-04

Tracks:

Piano Sonata No. 1 In F Minor
Piano Sonata No. 2 In A Major
Piano Sonata No. 3 In C Major
Piano Sonata No. 4 In E Flat Major
Piano Sonata No. 5 In C Minor
Piano Sonata No. 6 In F Major
Piano Sonata No. 7 In D Major
Piano Sonata No. 8 In C Minor, "Pathetique"
Piano Sonata No. 9 In E Major
Piano Sonata No. 10 In G Major
Piano Sonata No. 11 In B Flat Major
Piano Sonata No. 12 In A Flat Major "Funeral March"
Piano Sonata No. 13 In E Flat Major "Quasi Una Fantasia"
Piano Sonata No. 14 In C Sharp Minor "Moonlight"
Piano Sonata No. 15 In D Major "Pastoral"
Piano Sonata No. 16 In G Major
Piano Sonata No. 17 In D Minor "Tempest"
Piano Sonata No. 18 In E Flat Major "The Hunt"
Piano Sonata No. 19 In G Minor
Piano Sonata No. 20 In G Major
Piano Sonata No. 21 In C Major "Waldstein"
Piano Sonata No. 22 In F Major
Piano Sonata No. 23 In F Minor "Appassionata"
Piano Sonata No. 24 In F Sharp Major "A The"
Piano Sonata No. 25 In G Major "Cuckoo"
Piano Sonata No. 26 In E Flat Major "Les Adieux/Lebewohl"
Piano Sonata No. 27 In E Minor
Piano Sonata No. 28 In A Major
Piano Sonata No. 29 In B Flat Major "Hammerklavier"
Piano Sonata No. 30 In E Major
Piano Sonata No. 31 In A Flat Major
Piano Sonata No. 32 In C Minor

Customer Reviews:

Great Performances, Nice Price!.......2006-12-17

I was fairly familiar with the performance style of Artur Schnabel (1882-1951) prior to purchasing this recording. My small collection included his Schubert impromptus and several sonatas, a few Mozart concertos, the Brahms piano concerto #1 with Szell, and assorted Bach pieces. Others have waxed eloquently elsewhere about the aspects of his playing, so I will let you read their lengthy comments. Better yet, just LISTEN to some Schnabel, if you haven't already!

Although I can't really do it justice, I'll briefly summarize Schnabel's style. He gives a very personal interpretation of everything he plays. When you hear him, it's clearly Schnabel's Beethoven or Schnabel's Schubert or Schnabel's Brahms...not an attempt to historically recreate what the composer himself may have wanted. In a way, Schnabel is diameterically opposed to the HIP (Historically-Informed Performance) crowd.

In terms of fingering style, legato predominates over staccato to a great extent, rapid tempo changes are commonplace, and the rubato playing is stupendous. Some have commented in the past about technical deficiencies, such as slip-ups during challenging passages...I have to say that in these 1930's performances I don't hear many. If you listen to live performances towards the end of his career, you'll hear a few more botched notes.

So, he certainly isn't a Michelangeli (another pianist I respect greatly) in terms of absolute perfection of style and technique. What you get with Schnabel is an incredibly personal view of the music, persuasive and emotional in its delivery, intellectual and refined yet at the same time accessible, who plumbs the depths of a master like Beethoven like you've never heard before.

This particular collection is a reissue of the recordings Schnabel made for the English recording company HMV between the years of 1932-1935. This output initially totalled one-hundred 78 rpm records ("two-hundred sides"). It has never been out of print because of its incredible artistic value. The fact that it has continued to sell well probably hasn't hurt either! Previous incarnations have been found on Pearl, Dante, EMI, and now, Naxos Historical. I won't claim that this issue from Membran Music/Documents, apparently a German company, is better in sound quality than the others. In fact, I'd probably appreciate a little less noise reduction and more hiss, so I could appreciate the piano's tonal quality a bit more (hence, the 4 stars). However, after hearing the first of these discs, I can tell you that they are eminently listenable. Obviously, this ain't the digitally-recorded sound of Yevgeny Kissin playing in Carnegie Hall, but you can appreciate full-force the artistic genius of Schnabel.

I highly recommend this set, which is currently going for the ridiculously-low price (although I hope it stays that way...) of $16.99 for 10 CD's. Anyone who wants to hear the apex of Classical piano playing should give it a try.

Best regards, and Happy Holidays,

Adam

Beethoven: Piano Sonatas Nos. 8, 14, 21 & 23 / Wilhem Kempff

Average customer rating:

Middling
I recommend unreservedly
For the Waldstein and Moonlight
Heaven or hell? You decide!
Beautifully clear but lacking in fire and wildness

Beethoven: Piano Sonatas Nos. 8, 14, 21 & 23 / Wilhem Kempff

Manufacturer: Deutsche Grammophon
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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ASIN: B000001GQ1
Release Date: 1996-01-23

Tracks:

Sonate No. 8 C-moll Op. 13 'Pathetique': Grave - Allegro di molto e con brio
Sonate No. 8 C-moll Op. 13 'Pathetique': Adagio cantabile
Sonate No. 8 C-moll Op. 13 'Pathetique': Rondo. Allegro
Sonate No. 14 cis-moll Op. 27 No. 2 'Mondschein-Sonate': Adlagio sostenuto - attacca:
Sonate No. 14 cis-moll Op. 27 No. 2 'Mondschein-Sonate': Allegretto - acttacca:
Sonate No. 14 cis-moll Op. 27 No. 2 'Mondschein-Sonate': Presto agitato
Sonate No. 21 C-dur Op. 53 'Waldstein-Sonate': Allegro con brio
Sonate No. 21 C-dur Op. 53 'Waldstein-Sonate': Introduzione. Adagio molto - attacca:
Sonate No. 21 C-dur Op. 53 'Waldstein-Sonate': Rondo. Allegretto moderato
Sonate No. 23 f-moll Op. 57 'Appassionata': Allegro assai
Sonate No. 23 f-moll Op. 57 'Appassionata': Andante con moto - attacca:
Sonate No. 23 f-moll Op. 57 'Appassionata': Allegro, ma non troppo - Presto

Customer Reviews:

Middling.......2006-12-02

These performances are classic. To modern ears, Kempff has a delicate hand, and very good sense of dynamics. Lots of contrast. OTOH, some of the fast playing is a little muddled technically, the notes not quite clear and the pace hard to define, for example in the fast sections of Moonlight and Waldstein. These are very early recordings. Perhaps people weren't used to trying for technical perfection. And his flexibility with pace is a little too radical for my liking. Lots of parts seem too fast or too slow to me. Overly severe slowing and speeding in some cases.

Oh, and the recording quality is good...for the early 60s. That would not be a reason to avoid this disc.

I recommend unreservedly.......2005-12-15

This review is probably useless but I will not allow this wonderful disc to continue its 3 and a half star rating. Sound is fine. Performances immense but in a rather understated way which rewards repeated listening as more dynamic readings will not. I feel Beethoven sonatas need clarity and transparency for maximum enjoyment. i doubt if anyone would have the nerve to suggest this is not achieved by Kempff. I could draw comparison with that other master of understatement Solomon as his Beethoven is so transparent and I recommend his Testament recordings. Kempff is no Kovacevich and vice versa but I feel one can get rather fed up with K as K stamps his own personality on such works which leads to pretty impressive listening at first but I find it is Kempff I tend to go back to. Perhaps therefore purchasers should be warned to persevere if finding the disc seems disappointing on initial listening.

For the Waldstein and Moonlight.......2004-06-09

This CD deserves five stars for the Moonlight and Waldstein sonatas. These are the only two on the CD I listen to. I will agree that the Appassionata is not necessarily robust enough, and, having learned the Pathetique, it is not to my liking either.

But, before listening to Kempff's Moonlight recording, I had not especially liked the piece, especially the second and third movements. As I have heard all of the Beethoven sonatas, and most numerous times, this Moonlight recording brought to my attention the previously hidden beauty and "coolness" (in the second and third movements). It vaulted the piece up to about #6 on my list of Beethoven sonatas.

The Waldstein Sonata's first and third movements immediately caught my attention. Although I play the first movement faster than Kempff, it is nevertheless exceptional in my ears. The second movement is wonderful in its own right, but I am not particularly fond of it as a work, not at all Kempff's fault. As for the third movement. I am at a loss for words. Beethoven certainly helped out any pianist who plays this by making it one of this three or four best. This piece is absolutely delicious and Kempff makes it even moreso. The detached triplets at the 7:57 mark make me literally jump in the air and pump my fists.

These are, quite simply, the best Beethoven recordings I own, easily topping Van Cliburn's and Arrau's were a very close second. I have yet to obtain a Schnabel recording of these pieces.

Heaven or hell? You decide!.......2003-01-07

From his youth in Imperial Berlin and Vienna until his retirement in his late 80's, Wilhelm Kempff's interpretations of Beethoven's Piano works have never been anything other than controversial, polarising the opinions of music lovers for almost a century to an even greater extent than Kemperer did with the symphonies. That alone is no small achievement!

This however leaves us with something of a problem with this CD. Many who hear these recordings of some of the best known of Beethoven's Piano sonatas, The Pathetique (no 8), The Moonlight (no 14), The Waldstein (no 21) and The Appassionata (no 23), regard them as something of a "cop out", polite and civilised performances of music which at it's core it anything but polite and civilised, cynically calculated to appeal to the drawing room sensibilities of the late 19th and early 20th centuries. I must confess that the first time I heard this CD, I was inclined to agree. But as I listened again and again, I found myself being drawn ever deeper in to Kempff's view. These readings are deeply introspective; they have all the passion of more bombastic readings, but expressed in a more subtle way and prove that there is a romantic depth to Beethoven's music, which modern interpretations tend to gloss over. Perhaps this is how Liszt, Chopin and Clara Schumann played these works, or perhaps not, we'll never know. Either way the listener's reaction to this recording will be more subjective than with almost any other.

For me, even considering the mono recordings made my Kempff 10 years earlier than these which some consider to be better, this is the finest performance of the Beethoven sonata's available. I can't recommend it highly enough.

Beautifully clear but lacking in fire and wildness.......2002-03-21

Wilhelm Kempff took a very unique approach to Beethoven. His playing of the sonatas was much more "introverted" than that of most other pianists; he always brought out the personal, introspective qualities of Beethoven, even in brilliant, heroic works like the Waldstein or the Appassionata. The main ways he accomplished this were 1) by having a somewhat lower average dynamic level than most pianists, carefully observing all of Beethoven's piano markings (while ignoring several of the forte markings!) and 2) by avoiding extreme speeds, favoring spacious allegros and flowing slow movements. He also played very expressively, with rubato and ritardandos thrown in wherever he felt they were necessary. He also felt more concerned with expressing the character of the piece in his way than with honoring the letter of it.

While this may sound like a good approach on paper, it doesn't come off well in actuality. For example, in the Pathétique, the first sonata on this disc, the slow introduction, taken at quite a quick pace, is not very dark in character. Kempff cuts short the rests at the end of each phrase and changes the rhythm of several chords in the center. His playing of the Allegro di molto e con brio isn't much better. Firstly, the slow speed at which he plays it might work if sustained properly, but Kempff's phrasing is not good at all; he thumps out each chord without any concern for the phrasing or line of the piece. The slow speed and lack of compensation for this in the playing means that the movement feels too genteel, too polite. It's not wild, it's not dark - a constant problem with Kempff. In addition, he omits the exposition repeat (a serious failing). The famous slow movement is considerably better, benefiting from Kempff's flowing speed and admirable "floating" of the melody above the accompaniment. The final rondo, however, is terrible: Kempff's playing lacks any kind of drama or emotion. This can be seen even in his playing of the ornaments in the opening theme, where they MUST be on the beat, giving the theme a greater sense of wildness. Kempff opts for the "polite," before-the-beat solution.

The Moonlight's opening movement is taken quickly, but, again, the melody is floated superbly, and Kempff's delicate touch works wonders in this movement. The Allegretto is fine, but the Presto agitato is not very Presto, nor is it very agitato - and again, he omits the crucial repeat.

The Waldstein is perhaps the best performance on the disc. I will examine it at some length, as it is my favorite sonata before the last three. The first movement is fabulous. The speed is not too slow, the playing is not too choppy, the phrasing is fabulous. The magical tremolos at 0:22 are for once really magical and luminous, and if the subsequent wild passage isn't quite wild enough, the radiance and beauty of tone given to the chorale-like passage at 0:55 and the following radiant triplets in E major more than compensate. He observes the crucial exposition repeat, and varies his delivery of each section on the repeat, making it more than just a formality. The remainder of the movement is well-done, capturing the mood of each section well, although the closing runs in the final pages don't seem very intense.

The Introduzione is taken at a rather quick tempo, but Kempff's expressiveness and lyricism carry it through superbly. Kempff is generally very good at slow movements. The fabulous finale is taken at a rather slow pace, but I feel that's better in this movement than a speedy pace. The opening melody is, again, beautifully floated, but the flowing right-hand accompaniment doesn't sound quite even and serene as it should. Kempff's pedaling throughout this movement is rather eccentric, opting for less pedal where Beethoven specifies more, and more pedal where Beethoven specifies none. Everything is fine, however, until we get to the section in A minor after the first statement of the theme. Here, Kempff falls into the trap of thumping out the melody and the accompaniment. His eighth-note chords in the left hand plod gracelessly. He encounters similar problems in the later section in C minor. Although his crystal-clear articulation of the rapid left-hand figuration is admirable, he again thumps out the melody. In the subsequent modulating passage to D flat major, where the first three chords of the theme are repeated in different keys, the high, climactic D flat chord is hit extremely harshly, the very opposite of the otherworldly beauty it should be played with. His playing is a little too loud in the dreamy figuration which follows. At the fortissimo return of the main theme, his playing is again extremely harsh - this may also be a fault of the piano he uses, which is very percussive in the highest register. However, his is the best performance of the radiant broken-chord triplets (one of my favorite sections in Beethoven's entire sonata output) I have ever heard. The Prestissimo coda is very good, but is marred by the refusal to observe Beethoven's marking of the legato octaves in both hands as glissandi. There is no excuse whatsoever for not observing the unmistakable marking. Overall, although Kempff's Waldstein is a flawed performance, it is one that continually benefits from his light-filled, beautiful tone.

The Appassionata is a disappointment: texturally clear, beautifully played but totally lacking in the wild despair and passion this sonata so obviously needs.

Overall, a rather disappointing set of performances. Kempff's strengths are, in my opinion, better suited to the Haydenesque early sonatas and to the clarity and profundity of the late sonatas than to the early-middle to middle piano sonatas played here, which call for a more fiery temperament and style of playing than Kempff's admirably clear, lucid approach.

Beethoven: Violin Sonatas "Kreutzer" & "Spring"
Average customer rating:

The Amazing duo

great, great, great

Beethoven: Violin Sonatas "Kreutzer" & "Spring"

Manufacturer: Decca
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

All Works by Beethoven | Beethoven, Ludwig van | ( B ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music
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Perlman, Itzhak | ( P ) | Featured Performers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music
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ASIN: B0000041P9
Release Date: 1990-10-25

Tracks:

Violin Sonata No.9 In A Major - Op. 47: I Adagio sostenuto - Presto - Adagio
Violin Sonata No.9 In A Major - Op. 47: II Andante con Variazioni
Violin Sonata No.9 In A Major - Op. 47: III Finale - Presto
Violin SonataNo. 5 In F Major Op. 24: I Allegro
Violin SonataNo. 5 In F Major Op. 24: II Adagio molto espressivo
Violin SonataNo. 5 In F Major Op. 24: III Scherzo & Trio - Allegro molto
Violin SonataNo. 5 In F Major Op. 24: IV Rondo - Allegro ma non troppo

Amazon.com

Itzhak Perlman and Vladimir Ashkenazy play both of these pieces with unflagging virtuosity and impressive energy, bringing symphonic grandeur and scale to their account of the Kreutzer. The fingers and bow fly, yet Perlman never loses command of his tone. Recorded in 1973 and 1974, the readings are closely miked--so closely that one can literally hear the hair on Perlman's bow. The sound is weighty but clear, with excellent presence. --Ted Libbey

Customer Reviews:

The Amazing duo.......2000-06-13

In the past i have listened to at least six different versions of the "Kreutzer" sonata. None of them compare to the performance given by the magical Ashkenazy/Perlman duo. After listening to this cd I would have to say that Itzhak Perlman is the best violinist in existance. He expresses his deepest emotions through his instrument. This shows, especially in the first movement. Ashkenazy and Perlman seem to work extraordinarily well together which is why I give this title five stars.

great, great, great.......1999-05-31

Expect a great recording of great music by a great violinist... this performance lives up to it.

Beethoven: Piano Sonatas (Complete) [Box Set]

Average customer rating:

Phenomenal
BUY IT!
Best Beethoven sonata recording
Brisk to a fault and devoid of personality
Outstanding bargain

Beethoven: Piano Sonatas (Complete) [Box Set]

Manufacturer: Brilliant Classics
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

General | Classical | Styles | Music

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ASIN: B000CEWWBY
Release Date: 2005-12-20

Customer Reviews:

Phenomenal.......2007-06-15

I had never heard of Friedrich Gulda before coming across this set, but I will seek out his recordings in the future. Gulda is the only one I've found so far who can wean me off Pollini; his playing is intelligent, consistently excellent, and his note-accuracy is remarkable. It might be felt that Gulda is a bit cold, but I'm a great fan of some very emotional pianists (Argerich, Pogorelich, Pires), and I liked this recording from the start. Besides, this is Beethoven -- what's that passage Charles Rosen quotes from Proust: Beethoven is the "steak and potatoes" of music, and "affectation and too much pedal" are out of place. What really matters here is understanding, not affectation, and Gulda has plenty of understanding. The one place I found his matter-of-factness to actually detract from the music was in the last variation of the third movement of op. 109, one of my favorite passages -- and even that has left me a bit unsure whether it's Gulda or Beethoven that's fallen short in expressiveness (oh God, did I just say that?).

Highly recommended, especially given the price.

BUY IT!.......2007-01-21

Read all the reviews and weigh and evaluate them. Then, just buy it. This is one of the great recordings of the 20th Century and Beethoven fans should not be without it. Others like Solomon (especially) and Brendel, Kempff, et al have their merits and may be better on some specific sonatas, but the Gulda complete set has too much to offer to be discounted in any way. The low price only adds to their appeal. I owned these on vinyl years ago and am so glad to see them so well transfered to CD.

Best Beethoven sonata recording.......2006-12-08

This recording might be one of the greatest achievements in 20th-century music altogether. While absolutely legendary (and thought to be the best complete recording of the Beethoven Sonatas) in Europe, it is unfortunately quite unknown in Northamerica. Now that it is available, you should get it.

Recording a complete set of these Sonatas is one of the most demanding exercises for a pianist. Of course, none of the Beethoven Sonatas compare with the technical difficulty of Liszt, Alkan, Godowsky, Rachmaninov or Albeniz, but when it comes to interpretation, they are way more sensitive and difficult. Thats certainly a reason why all the young pianists become famous with the romantics/late-romantics, while they start with Beethoven only when matured.

When you master a complete set of these Sonatas like Gulda does, you become a legend (by the way: he was also Martha Argerichs teacher). He plays all the Sonatas equally well, no matter how easy or difficult. Of course, his approach is more on the agressive side. A lot of the Sonatas are played in two thirds of the time of most of the other recordings, but at the same Gulda plays them incredibly clear and with a very elegant and soft tone. No unnecessary romanticism there.

There is only one case where I think the recording is less than perfect: The first movement of "Waldstein", which is played too fast. Otherwise its a superb recording, a must have for any piano fan.

Brisk to a fault and devoid of personality.......2006-11-02

This set is my 10th traversal of the Beethoven sonatas. It is close to note-perfect and it is clearly recorded. It is also devoid of nuance and musicality much of the time. No slow movement is ever slow; Gulda suffers from Andante-itis in all of the slow movements. To compare this set with Schnabel -- or even the Frank set, available at a bargain price -- is laughable. Oh, that reminds me: humor is lacking too. Opus 10 No. 3 -- a masterpiece if ever there was one -- is reduced to slapstick drivel due to Gulda's clock-watching obsession with velocity. I like a brisk Beethoven as much as anyone, but this is as far from Schnabel as Zinman is from Toscanini. Like Zinman's musicmaking, this set is glib, but largely without substance. (Now everyone who disagrees with me can vote my review to be "not helpful.")

Outstanding bargain.......2006-10-13

This wonderful set is a reissue of the 1967 Amadeo set (NOT his 1954-58 Decca set, which has also been recently reissued). It had been reissued on CD by Philips, but has not been available in a long time. The performances are very exciting, bold, and muscular. Just the way Beethoven's playing was described by his contemporaries. The recording quality is very good, though the piano is a bit more closely recorded than I like. Of course, there are many approaches to playing Beethoven. Gulda's playing might be too aggressive for some listeners. Richard Goode's fine recordings on Nonesuch are more subtle, and make a nice contrast to this Gulda version.
At less than 30 USD, this Brilliant Classics reissue is an amazing bargain. However, Claude Frank's set on Music and Arts (a reissue of the classic RCA set from 1970) is even cheaper, and that remains my favorite set of Beethoven's 32.

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