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Beethoven: Piano Sonatas, Op. 22, Op. 31/3 & Op. 101

1/12/2024, 12 Tracks, 1:12:28

Featuring

  • Angela Hewitt
  • Ludwig van Beethoven

Did you know?

1/7

Composition History

Beethoven was particularly pleased with his Piano Sonata in B flat major, Op 22, writing to his publisher in 1800 that it was 'really something' and predicting its commercial success.

Source: Booklet

Composer Biography

Beethoven's hearing was progressively worsening in 1816, the year he completed the Piano Sonata in A major, Op 101, though he didn't start using conversation books until 1818.

Source: Booklet

Instruments

In the finale of the Piano Sonata in A major, Op 101, Beethoven used the 'contra E' note for the first time ever, a note only available on the latest pianos of his time.

Source: Booklet

Performer Biography

Angela Hewitt, the pianist on this recording, won First Prize in the 1985 Toronto International Bach Piano Competition, which launched her international career.

Source: Booklet

Composer Biography

Beethoven dedicated his Piano Sonata in A major, Op 101, to his favorite female pianist and pupil, Dorothea von Ertmann, whom he admired for her artistic talent and person.

Source: Booklet

Album & Artwork

The pianist, Angela Hewitt, intentionally goes against the usual trend of pairing related works on this album, preferring to present it as a 'recital'.

Source: Booklet

Critical Reception

When sending his Piano Sonata in A major, Op 101, to his publisher, Beethoven suggested it be titled 'The difficult-to-play Sonata in A', stating that 'What is difficult is also beautiful, good, great etc.'

Source: Booklet

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