Customer Reviews

Alfred Brendel Plays Beethoven Piano Sonatas, Vol. 4

5 star:		(2)
4 star:		(2)
3 star:		(0)
2 star:		(0)
1 star:		(0)

 

 

Brendel and Beethoven, somehow the names just fit together. This cd on Vox, was originally part of the famed Vox Box series and in this case the Vox Box contained the complete Beethoven Sonatas. It won a Grand Prix de Disc when it was first released. It was a worthy recipient. Although Brendel has re-recorded the sonatas for the Philips label, this set has a freshness and vitality about it, an excitement of discovery, something missing from the Philips set. Highly recommended

Many consider Alfred Brendel to be one of the greatest interpreters of Beethoven's piano music. His level of accomplishment is truly amazing when you consider that he has had very little formal education and is primarily self-taught.

Only the last 3 volumes of this 4 volume set address this very nice collection of the entire piano sonatas by Beethoven, played by Brendel, and well worth owning. My reasoning for only giving 4 stars is that, although I greatly enjoy and appreciate his playing, I have personal favorites of these played by others which are more endearing to my personal taste. But overall, these pieces are beautifully performed. He is consistently good and as a complete set, I would give them a 5 star. I think you would be hard pressed to find any better.

One man's viewpoint: I always love Brendel's light, agile touch. Yet there's a passion here that's hard to describe. Kind of sneaks up on you. He articulates every note cleanly in these pieces too. Amazing. And ALL the LVB sonatas have something wonderful to offer. Suggest you buy all four of AB's VOX renderings. And his Diabelli's. Then I'd suggest Arrau and O'Conor. All rewarding!

A resaonably good introduction to what Beethoven's piano sonatas are all about; but keep in mind that there are better pieces. As far as music goes, it is undoubtably enjoyable.