Immerse yourself in the timeless genius of Ludwig van Beethoven with this exquisite collection of his most celebrated piano sonatas. Released on January 1, 2012, under the Warner Classics label, "Beethoven: Popular Piano Sonatas" is a comprehensive journey through some of the most influential works in classical music history.
This album spans a generous duration of 2 hours and 28 minutes, offering a rich tapestry of Beethoven's compositional prowess. It features iconic pieces such as the "Pathétique" Sonata No. 8, the ethereal "Moonlight" Sonata No. 14, the majestic "Waldstein" Sonata No. 21, the evocative "Les Adieux" Sonata No. 26, the passionate "Appassionata" Sonata No. 23, the lively Sonata No. 25, and the monumental "Hammerklavier" Sonata No. 29. Each sonata is a masterclass in musical expression, showcasing Beethoven's unparalleled ability to convey a range of emotions and ideas through the piano.
Whether you are a seasoned classical music enthusiast or a newcomer to Beethoven's works, this album provides a captivating exploration of his artistic evolution. The sonatas are performed with precision and depth, highlighting the intricate details and profound beauty of Beethoven's compositions. From the dramatic intensity of the "Pathétique" to the serene elegance of the "Moonlight," each piece offers a unique listening experience that underscores Beethoven's enduring legacy in the world of classical music.
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