Beethoven Recitals

Beethoven’s 32 piano sonatas are among the greatest achievements of western civilization. From humor to pathos, sorrow to joy, tenderness to exaltation, they are Shakespearean in their dramatic and emotional scope.

This season I plan to perform Sonatas number 27 (Opus 90), 28 (Opus 101) on a recital with Liszt’s Mephisto Waltz, and on another recital, number 29 (Opus 106, the Hammerklavier).

Those who are not familiar with the sonatas or with any of the other music I’m performing may find it helpful to get recordings and spend time listening before each recital. You and your children may also enjoy reading about Beethoven’s life and works. There are many biographies of Beethoven, a number of which are charmingly written for younger listeners.