Immerse yourself in the timeless genius of Ludwig van Beethoven, masterfully interpreted by the renowned pianist Radu Lupu. Released in 2005 under the Decca Music Group Ltd. label, "Radu Lupu plays Beethoven" is a comprehensive collection that spans a staggering 4 hours and 48 minutes, offering a deep dive into Beethoven's most celebrated works.
This album features a complete performance of Beethoven's five piano concertos, each a testament to the composer's innovative spirit and emotional depth. From the exuberant energy of the Piano Concerto No. 1 in C Major, Op. 15 to the majestic grandeur of the Piano Concerto No. 5 in E-Flat Major, Op. 73 "Emperor," Lupu's interpretations are both technically brilliant and deeply expressive.
Beyond the concertos, the album also includes two of Beethoven's most beloved piano sonatas: the hauntingly beautiful "Moonlight" Sonata (Piano Sonata No. 14 in C-Sharp Minor, Op. 27 No. 2) and the dramatic "Pathétique" Sonata (Piano Sonata No. 8 in C Minor, Op. 13). These works showcase Lupu's ability to convey the full range of Beethoven's emotional landscape, from tender melancholy to fierce passion.
Adding to the richness of the collection are the two rondos from Op. 51, the virtuosic 32 Variations on an Original Theme in C Minor, WoO 80, and the enchanting Quintet for Piano and Winds in E-Flat Major, Op. 16. Each piece is performed with a level of artistry and precision that highlights Lupu's deep understanding of Beethoven's music.
Radu Lupu, a celebrated pianist known for his profound interpretations and impeccable technique, brings a unique sensitivity and intellectual depth to these performances. His playing is characterized by a rare combination of lyricism, power, and emotional resonance, making this album a true treasure for both Beethoven enthusiasts and classical music lovers alike.
"Radu Lupu plays Beethoven" is not just an album; it's a journey through the soul of one of the greatest composers in history, as seen through the eyes of one of the most respected pianists of our time. Whether you're a seasoned classical music aficionado or a newcomer to Beethoven's works, this collection offers an unforgettable exploration of the composer's enduring legacy.
Piano Concerto No. 1 in C Major, Op. 15: 1. Allegro con brioLudwig van Beethoven, Radu Lupu, Israel Philharmonic Orchestra, Zubin Mehta
Piano Concerto No. 1 in C Major, Op. 15: 2. LargoLudwig van Beethoven, Radu Lupu, Israel Philharmonic Orchestra, Zubin Mehta
Piano Concerto No. 1 in C Major, Op. 15: 3. Rondo (Allegro scherzando)Ludwig van Beethoven, Radu Lupu, Israel Philharmonic Orchestra, Zubin Mehta
Piano Concerto No. 2 in B Flat Major, Op. 19: 1. Allegro con brioLudwig van Beethoven, Radu Lupu, Israel Philharmonic Orchestra, Zubin Mehta
Piano Concerto No. 2 in B Flat Major, Op. 19: 2. AdagioLudwig van Beethoven, Radu Lupu, Israel Philharmonic Orchestra, Zubin Mehta
Piano Concerto No. 2 in B Flat Major, Op. 19: 3. Rondo (Molto allegro)Ludwig van Beethoven, Radu Lupu, Israel Philharmonic Orchestra, Zubin Mehta
2 Rondos, Op. 51: No. 1 in C Major. Moderato e graziosoLudwig van Beethoven, Radu Lupu
2 Rondos, Op. 51: No. 2 in G Major. Andante cantabile e graziosoLudwig van Beethoven, Radu Lupu
Piano Concerto No. 3 in C Minor, Op. 37: I. Allegro con brioLudwig van Beethoven, Radu Lupu, Israel Philharmonic Orchestra, Zubin Mehta
Piano Concerto No. 3 in C Minor, Op. 37: II. LargoLudwig van Beethoven, Radu Lupu, Israel Philharmonic Orchestra, Zubin Mehta
Piano Concerto No. 3 in C Minor, Op. 37: III. Rondo. AllegroLudwig van Beethoven, Radu Lupu, Israel Philharmonic Orchestra, Zubin Mehta
Piano Concerto No. 4 in G Major, Op. 58: 1. Allegro moderatoLudwig van Beethoven, Radu Lupu, Israel Philharmonic Orchestra, Zubin Mehta
Piano Concerto No. 4 in G Major, Op. 58: 2. Andante con motoLudwig van Beethoven, Radu Lupu, Israel Philharmonic Orchestra, Zubin Mehta
Piano Concerto No. 4 in G Major, Op. 58: 3. Rondo (Vivace)Ludwig van Beethoven, Radu Lupu, Israel Philharmonic Orchestra, Zubin Mehta
Piano Concerto No. 5 in E-Flat Major, Op. 73 "Emperor": 1. AllegroLudwig van Beethoven, Radu Lupu, Israel Philharmonic Orchestra, Zubin Mehta
Piano Concerto No. 5 in E-Flat Major, Op. 73 "Emperor": 2. Adagio un poco mossoLudwig van Beethoven, Radu Lupu, Israel Philharmonic Orchestra, Zubin Mehta
Piano Concerto No. 5 in E-Flat Major, Op. 73 "Emperor": 3. Rondo. AllegroLudwig van Beethoven, Radu Lupu, Israel Philharmonic Orchestra, Zubin Mehta
Piano Sonata No. 14 in C-Sharp Minor, Op. 27 No. 2 "Moonlight": I. Adagio sostenutoLudwig van Beethoven, Radu Lupu
Piano Sonata No. 14 in C-Sharp Minor, Op. 27 No. 2 "Moonlight": II. AllegrettoLudwig van Beethoven, Radu Lupu
Piano Sonata No. 14 in C-Sharp Minor, Op. 27 No. 2 "Moonlight": III. Presto agitatoLudwig van Beethoven, Radu Lupu
Piano Sonata No. 8 in C Minor, Op. 13 "Pathétique": I. Grave – Allegro di molto e con brioLudwig van Beethoven, Radu Lupu
Piano Sonata No. 8 in C Minor, Op. 13 "Pathétique": II. Adagio cantabileLudwig van Beethoven, Radu Lupu
Piano Sonata No. 8 in C Minor, Op. 13 "Pathétique": III. Rondo. AllegroLudwig van Beethoven, Radu Lupu
Piano Sonata No. 21 in C Major, Op. 53 "Waldstein": I. Allegro con brioLudwig van Beethoven, Radu Lupu
Piano Sonata No. 21 in C Major, Op. 53 "Waldstein": II. Introduzione. Adagio moltoLudwig van Beethoven, Radu Lupu
Piano Sonata No. 21 in C Major, Op. 53 "Waldstein": III. Rondo. Allegretto moderato – PrestissimoLudwig van Beethoven, Radu Lupu
32 Variations on an Original Theme in C Minor, WoO 80: Theme. Allegretto – Variations 1-32Ludwig van Beethoven, Radu Lupu
Quintet for Piano and Winds in E-Flat Major, Op. 16: I. Grave – Allegro ma non troppoLudwig van Beethoven, Radu Lupu, Hans de Vries, George Pieterson, Vicente Zarzo, Brian Pollard
Quintet for Piano and Winds in E-Flat Major, Op. 16: II. Andante cantabileLudwig van Beethoven, Radu Lupu, Hans de Vries, George Pieterson, Vicente Zarzo, Brian Pollard
Quintet for Piano and Winds in E-Flat Major, Op. 16: III. Rondo. Allegro ma non troppoLudwig van Beethoven, Radu Lupu, Hans de Vries, George Pieterson, Vicente Zarzo, Brian Pollard