Beethoven announced the completion of his Variations opp. 34 and 35, written in a "truly new style," shortly after finishing his famous Heiligenstadt Testament, helping him overcome a profound crisis.
Interpretation
The recording features instruments representative of different periods in Beethoven's life and the piano's evolution, to showcase the diversity of sound he experienced.
Composer Biography
Beethoven composed most of his work while deaf, which likely influenced his constant pushing of the limits of instruments of his time.
Instruments
During Beethoven's lifetime, the pianoforte underwent a period of decisive development, with instruments having unique characteristics depending on their geographical origin.
Interpretation
Playing on an early piano is not about strict time travel, but about reconnecting with the creative energy of a bygone era.
Performer Biography
Hyunji Kim, the pianist on this recording, studied pianoforte with Daria Fadeeva and has performed on early instruments at venues like the Musée de la Musique in Paris.
Composer's Artistic Vision
According to Alfred Brendel, Beethoven's piano works largely anticipated the construction of the instrument, requiring decades after his death for pianos and pianists to meet their demands.
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