A thrilling ‘Emperor’ from Lupu and Mehta is coupled with some solo piano rarities. Both the two Rondos and the two Sonatas included here are among Beethoven’s simpler pieces for piano and, while ever charming, they are constantly played by piano students and on regular piano exam syllabuses.
LUDWIG VAN BEETHOVEN
Piano Concerto No. 5 in E flat major, Op. 73 ‘Emperor’
Rondo in C major, Op. 51 No. 1
Rondo in G major, Op. 51 No. 2
Piano Sonata No. 19 in G minor, Op. 49 No. 1
Piano Sonata No. 20 in G major, Op. 49 No. 2
Radu Lupu, piano
Israel Philharmonic Orchestra
Zubin Mehta
‘striking thoughtfulness and poetry’ Penguin Guide to CDs (2000 Yearbook)
‘port wine sonority and leonine temperament’ ClassicsToday.com