Beethoven: Piano Trio, Op. 1, No. 3 / Piano Trio in E-Flat Major / Variations, Op. 44
8/7/1994, 9 Tracks, 1:00:06
Featuring
Rainer Kussmaul
Claus Kanngiesser
Monika Leonhard
Stuttgart Piano Trio
Ludwig van Beethoven
Did you know?
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Critical Reception
Haydn's reservation about publishing the C minor Piano Trio (Op. 1, No. 3) was due to concerns that the public might not understand its harmonic innovations and dynamic contrasts.
Composer Biography
Beethoven settled in Vienna in 1792 with encouragement from his patron, the Archbishop of Cologne, who was the son of the Empress and had weak legs that prevented a military career.
Composition History
The three piano trios of Beethoven's Opus 1 were published in 1795 and dedicated to Prince Carl Lichnowsky, who had provided the composer with lodging and ongoing support.
Notable Performances
The Opus 1 trios were first performed at Prince Lichnowsky's residence in the presence of Haydn, who praised them but advised against publishing the third trio.
Performer Biography
Claus Kanngiesser, the cellist for the Stuttgart Piano Trio, plays an instrument made in 1841 by Gian Francesco Pressenda.
Performer Biography
The Stuttgart Piano Trio's violinist, Rainer Kussmaul, plays a violin made by Andrea Guarnerius in Cremona in 1692.
Composer Biography
Beethoven's career as a performer was cut short by increasing deafness, which first appeared around the turn of the century.
