Bach: Overture in the French Style, BWV 831 - Beethoven: Piano Sonatas Nos. 30 & 31

Michel Béroff, a renowned pianist with a career spanning over five decades, presents a captivating album that masterfully blends the timeless elegance of Bach with the profound depth of Beethoven. This album, set for release on March 24, 2025, under the Warner Classics label, offers a compelling journey through two distinct yet harmoniously connected musical worlds.

The album opens with Bach's "Overture in the French Style, BWV 831," a suite that showcases Béroff's technical prowess and interpretative sensitivity. The overture, followed by a series of intricate dances including Courante, Gavottes, Passepieds, Sarabande, Bourrées, and Gigue, demonstrates Bach's ingenious blend of French dance forms with his distinctive contrapuntal style. Béroff's performance brings out the subtleties and nuances of each movement, making this suite a delightful experience for classical music enthusiasts.

The second half of the album is dedicated to Beethoven's Piano Sonatas Nos. 30 and 31. These sonatas, composed in the latter part of Beethoven's career, are celebrated for their innovative structures and emotional depth. Béroff's interpretations are marked by a profound understanding of Beethoven's musical language, capturing the sonatas' dramatic contrasts and introspective moments. The variations in the third movement of Sonata No. 30 and the fugal finale of Sonata No. 31 are particularly noteworthy, showcasing Béroff's ability to navigate complex musical landscapes with ease and precision.

With a total duration of one hour, this album is a testament to Béroff's artistry and his ability to breathe new life into these classical masterpieces. Whether you're a seasoned classical music aficionado or a newcomer to the genre, this album promises an enriching and enjoyable listening experience.