On Air Now
Early Breakfast with Lucy Coward 4am - 6:30am
An absolute treat for all fans of Beethoven, from talented pianist Paul Lewis
Composer: Beethoven
Repertoire: Piano Sonatas, Vol.4
Artists: Paul Lewis (piano)
Rating: 5/5
Genre: Instrumental
Label: Harmonia Mundi HMC 901909.11
Don’t let the bland opus numbers on the front of the disc put you off – they are merely a convenient way of identifying 10 of the piano’s greatest works. And in Paul Lewis they have found a truly outstanding champion. From the opening of Sonata No.5 in C minor (the finale of which, incidentally, has rarely been so electrifyingly played) to the calm, measured conclusion of No.32 in the same key, the last of the series, Lewis is simultaneously an adventurer, companion, poet and singer. His imagination and technique is always and only at the service of the composer. This recording is superbly recorded and at just over three hours, it is an award-winning release.