Beethoven dedicated his Op. 2 piano sonatas to his teacher, Franz Joseph Haydn, and his Op. 10 sonatas to Countess von Browne, the wife of a Russian diplomat.
Composer Biography
Beethoven was not considered a child prodigy and began publishing his first compositions at the relatively late age of 24.
Composer's Artistic Vision
Beethoven consistently used the key of C minor throughout his life to represent struggle, turmoil, and drama in his compositions.
Performer Biography
Adam Golka, the performer on this album, has studied Beethoven's works extensively under masters such as Leon Fleisher, Alfred Brendel, and Sir András Schiff.
Composition History
Beethoven dedicated the 'Pathétique' Sonata, Op. 13, to Prince Karl von Lichnowsky, a friend and supporter of Mozart, who also provided Beethoven with an annual stipend.
Critical Reception
Beethoven's 'Pathétique' Sonata, Op. 13, was the first of his piano sonatas to gain and maintain public recognition, partly due to its strong and confident movements.
Recording & Production
This album was recorded at the Olivier Music Barn, located at the Tippet Rise Arts Center in Fishtail, Montana, in January 2019.
