This recording is the penultimate release in Angela Hewitt's complete cycle of Beethoven piano sonatas, a project she began in 2005.
Composer Biography
The 'Waldstein' Sonata, Op. 53, is dedicated to Count Waldstein, who was Beethoven's patron and friend, and helped him study with Haydn in Vienna.
Instruments
Beethoven received a new piano from the French manufacturer Érard in 1803, which had an extended range and four pedals, influencing his composition of the 'Waldstein' Sonata, Op. 53.
Composition History
Beethoven began sketching the 'Waldstein' Sonata, Op. 53, in late 1803, a period when he was also working on his 'Eroica' Symphony and the opera Fidelio.
Performer Biography
Angela Hewitt's international career was launched after winning First Prize in the 1985 Toronto International Bach Piano Competition.
Performer Biography
Angela Hewitt, one of the world's leading pianists, is renowned for her award-winning recordings, particularly of J.S. Bach's major keyboard works, described as "one of the record glories of our age."
Composer's Artistic Vision
Angela Hewitt's approach to this album was to present a contrast of well-known and lesser-known Beethoven sonatas, rather than standard pairings.
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