Immerse yourself in the timeless elegance of Beethoven's piano sonatas with Myra Hess, a renowned pianist whose artistry transcends generations. Released on September 19, 2011, under the Past Classics label, this album features two of Beethoven's late masterpieces: Piano Sonata No. 30 in E Major, Op. 109, and Piano Sonata No. 32 in A-Flat Major, Op. 110. Spanning a concise yet impactful 40 minutes, this collection is a testament to Hess's profound understanding and interpretation of Beethoven's intricate compositions.
The album opens with the Piano Sonata No. 30, Op. 109, showcasing Hess's delicate touch and expressive depth in the first movement's Vivace ma non troppo and the subsequent Adagio espressivo sections. The Prestissimo second movement and the Andante molto cantabile ed espressivo third movement, with its six variations, further highlight her technical brilliance and emotional resonance.
The second half of the album presents the Piano Sonata No. 32, Op. 110, where Hess's mastery of Beethoven's complex structures is evident. The Moderato cantabile - Molto espressivo first movement, the Allegro molto second movement with its intricate Coda, and the Adagio ma non troppo third movement all demonstrate her ability to navigate the sonata's dynamic range and emotional depth.
Myra Hess, a celebrated pianist with a career spanning decades, brings her unique perspective to these works, offering a performance that is both historically significant and deeply moving. Whether you are a seasoned classical music enthusiast or a newcomer to the genre, this album is a captivating exploration of Beethoven's genius through the lens of one of the 20th century's most esteemed pianists.