Immerse yourself in the timeless genius of Ludwig van Beethoven with "Rudolf Serkin plays Beethoven," a captivating collection of Beethoven's most celebrated piano sonatas and works. Released on July 3, 2012, by Music and Arts Programs of America, this album spans a generous 2 hours and 19 minutes, offering a comprehensive journey through Beethoven's evolving compositional style.
The album features a meticulously curated selection of Beethoven's piano sonatas, including the iconic "Moonlight" Sonata (No. 14), the deeply expressive "Pathétique" Sonata (No. 8), and the grand "Waldstein" Sonata (No. 21). Each piece is performed with exquisite artistry by the renowned pianist Rudolf Serkin, whose interpretations are celebrated for their depth, nuance, and technical brilliance.
In addition to these well-known works, the album also includes lesser-known but equally captivating pieces such as the "Les adieux" Sonata (No. 26), the introspective "Appassionata" Sonata (No. 23), and the contemplative "à Thérèse" Sonata (No. 24). The inclusion of the "Fantasia in G Minor, Op. 77" adds a touch of romanticism and fantasy to the collection.
Rudolf Serkin's performances are marked by a profound understanding of Beethoven's music, bringing out the emotional depth and structural complexity of each piece. His playing is both technically impeccable and deeply expressive, making this album a treasure trove for both Beethoven enthusiasts and classical music lovers alike. Whether you're a seasoned listener or new to Beethoven's works, "Rudolf Serkin plays Beethoven" offers an enriching and rewarding listening experience.
(C) 2012 Music and Arts Programs of America(P) 2012 Music and Arts Programs of America
Tracks
Piano Sonata No. 14 in C-Sharp Minor, Op. 27 No. 2 "Moonlight": I. Adagio sostenutoLudwig van Beethoven, Rudolf Serkin
Piano Sonata No. 14 in C-Sharp Minor, Op. 27 No. 2 "Moonlight": II. AllegrettoLudwig van Beethoven, Rudolf Serkin
Piano Sonata No. 14 in C-Sharp Minor, Op. 27 No. 2 "Moonlight": III. Presto agitatoLudwig van Beethoven, Rudolf Serkin
Piano Sonata No. 8 in C Minor, Op. 13 "Pathétique": I. Grave - Allegro di molto e con brioLudwig van Beethoven, Rudolf Serkin
Piano Sonata No. 8 in C Minor, Op. 13 "Pathétique": II. Adagio cantabileLudwig van Beethoven, Rudolf Serkin
Piano Sonata No. 8 in C Minor, Op. 13 "Pathétique": III. Rondo. AllegroLudwig van Beethoven, Rudolf Serkin
Piano Sonata No. 23 in F Minor, Op. 57 "Appassionata": I. Allegro assaiLudwig van Beethoven, Rudolf Serkin
Piano Sonata No. 23 in F Minor, Op. 57 "Appassionata": II. Andante con motoLudwig van Beethoven, Rudolf Serkin
Piano Sonata No. 23 in F Minor, Op. 57 "Appassionata": III. Allegro ma non troppo - PrestoLudwig van Beethoven, Rudolf Serkin
Piano Sonata No. 26 in E-Flat Major, Op. 81a "Les adieux": I. Das Lebewohl: Adagio - AllegroLudwig van Beethoven, Rudolf Serkin
Piano Sonata No. 26 in E-Flat Major, Op. 81a "Les adieux": II. Abwesenheit: Andante espressivoLudwig van Beethoven, Rudolf Serkin
Piano Sonata No. 26 in E-Flat Major, Op. 81a "Les adieux": III. Das Wiedersehn: VivacissimamenteLudwig van Beethoven, Rudolf Serkin
Piano Sonata No. 21 in C Major, Op. 53 "Waldstein": I. Allegro con brioLudwig van Beethoven, Rudolf Serkin
Piano Sonata No. 21 in C Major, Op. 53 "Waldstein": II. Introduzione. Adagio moltoLudwig van Beethoven, Rudolf Serkin
Piano Sonata No. 21 in C Major, Op. 53 "Waldstein": III. Rondo. Allegretto moderato - PrestissimoLudwig van Beethoven, Rudolf Serkin
Piano Sonata No. 30 in E Major, Op. 109: I. Vivace ma non troppoLudwig van Beethoven, Rudolf Serkin
Piano Sonata No. 30 in E Major, Op. 109: II. PrestissimoLudwig van Beethoven, Rudolf Serkin
Piano Sonata No. 30 in E Major, Op. 109: III. Gesangvoll, mit innigster Empfindung: Andante molto cantabile ed espressivoLudwig van Beethoven, Rudolf Serkin
Fantasia in G Minor, Op. 77Ludwig van Beethoven, Rudolf Serkin
Piano Sonata No. 24 in F-Sharp Major, Op. 78 "à Thérèse": I. Adagio cantabile - Allegro ma non troppoLudwig van Beethoven, Rudolf Serkin
Piano Sonata No. 24 in F-Sharp Major, Op. 78 "à Thérèse": II. Allegro vivaceLudwig van Beethoven, Rudolf Serkin