Beethoven Piano Sonatas opp 109, 110, 111
Ludwig van Beethoven (1770-1827)
- GRAMOPHONE MAGAZINE RECORDING OF THE MONTH
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Steven Osborne has made many outstanding recordings but this is certainly among his finest. A magnificent achievement’ (Gramophone)
After a mighty and full-blooded account of the Op 111 Allegro, he gives both the jazziest performance of the variations I have ever heard, and also one of the most heart-stopping in their ultimate finality’ (BBC Music Magazine)
This is Beethoven with no safety net, thrillingly alive’ (BBC Record Review)
‘These three sonatas seem to express everything in music, including wit and generosity. Osborne, always a player in absolute service to the composer, captures Beethoven’s humanity, tumult and crazed fervour. This revered Scottish pianist has a special capacity for the ethereal. Check out the opening of the last movement (Andante) of Op 109, in the Adagio of Op 110, in the Arietta of Op 111’ (The Guardian)
‘While it’s naive to talk about a 'best choice' for such well-contested repertoire as this, these readings can confidently be placed amongst the finest to appear in recent times … everyone should know these sonatas, and Osborne’s album deserves to do well’ (Classic FM)
‘[Osborne's] ultimate and selfless achievement has been to make the listener newly appreciate what an extraordinary, uplifting and contemporary composer Beethoven is’ (The Times)
‘An endlessly enlightening album, finely recorded. Essential listening’ (International Piano)
‘It is probably not too far a stretch to suggest parallels with the great late String Quartet recordings of the Busch Quartet or the Alban Berg Quartet; there is a similar level of understanding from Osborne … a stunning release. Osborne’s readings will, beyond doubt, move you’ (MusicWeb International)
Tracklisting
Beethoven - Piano Sonata op.109 in E major
Vivace ma non troppo
Prestissimo
Andante molto cantabile ed espressivo
Beethoven - Piano Sonata op.110 in Ab major
Moderato, cantabile molto espressivo
Allegro molto
Adagio ma non troppo - Fuga: Allegro ma non troppo
Beethoven - Piano Sonata op.111 in C minor
Maestoso - Allegro con brio ed appasionato
Arietta: Adagio