Beethoven's Piano Concerto No. 2, though numbered second, was actually his first piano concerto.
Composer's Artistic Vision
Beethoven believed that music could change people and the world, not just provide beauty, a revolutionary power felt in his quiet moments.
Performer Biography
Lars Vogt, the pianist and conductor on this album, won second prize at the 1990 Leeds International Piano Competition, launching his varied career.
Composition History
Beethoven initially improvised his piano part during performances of his Piano Concerto No. 2, only writing it down for publication in 1801.
Performer Biography
Lars Vogt was the first-ever 'pianist in Residence' for the Berlin Philharmonic in the 2003/04 season, maintaining a special relationship with the orchestra.
Notable Performances
Beethoven's Piano Concerto No. 4 was premiered in December 1808 as part of a major concert that also included the premieres of his Fifth and Sixth Symphonies.
Compositional Technique
Beethoven's Piano Concerto No. 4 begins unconventionally with a quiet piano solo, defying the expectation of a grand orchestral opening.
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