Beethoven: Sonatas for Fortepiano and Violin Volume 4

Featuring

Ian Watson
Susanna Ogata
Ludwig van Beethoven

Did you know?

1/7

Instruments

The fortepiano used on this recording is a Paul McNulty instrument from 2000, modeled after the Walter and Sohn pianos, a type praised by Mozart and played by Beethoven.

Critical Reception

An early critic in 1799 found Beethoven's Op. 12 sonatas bizarre and singular, complaining of a 'striving for strange modulations' and a 'heaping up of difficulties'.

Instruments

The violin used by Susanna Ogata was built in 1772 by Joseph Klotz, from a highly regarded family of instrument makers, and Mozart likely performed on a Klotz family instrument.

Historical Context

By the late 18th century, violin sonatas were popular, often billed as 'sonatas for harpsichord or fortepiano, with the accompaniment of a violin,' implying the violin had a secondary role.

Composition History

Beethoven's Op. 12 Sonatas for Fortepiano and Violin were among his first compositions in this genre, written in the winter and early spring of 1797-98.

Performer Biography

Susanna Ogata, the violinist, serves as Assistant Concertmaster for the Handel and Haydn Society and has received accolades for her performances and recordings.

Performer Biography

Ian Watson, the fortepiano player, won a scholarship to the Junior School of the Royal Academy of Music at age 14 and was later honored with an Associateship of the Royal Academy of Music.