Composer: Ludwig van Beethoven
Works: Piano Sonatas No. 8 in C minor, Op. 13 – “Pathétique”; No. 14 in C sharp minor, Op. 27/2 – “Moonlight”; No. 23 in F minor, Op. 57 – “Appassionata”; No. 26 in E flat, Op. 81a – “Les Adieux”
Performers: Arthur Rubinstein, pianoforte
Recording: 1962 (Opp. 13, 27/2, 81a), 1963 (Op. 57)
Label: BMG RCA Red Seal 74321 68006 2
Ludwig van Beethoven’s piano sonatas are towering achievements in Western classical music, embodying not just technical mastery but also profound emotional depth. The selected sonatas for this release—Op. 13, Op. 27/2, Op. 57, and Op. 81a—span a pivotal period in Beethoven’s oeuvre, illustrating the transition from the Classical to the Romantic idiom. Each sonata presents unique challenges and opportunities for interpretation, making them perennial favorites among both performers and audiences. Arthur Rubinstein, a titan of 20th-century pianism, offers a compelling rendition of these works, marked by his characteristic warmth and lyrical sensibility.
Rubinstein’s approach to the “Pathétique” is immediate and commanding, with the opening chords resonating with a dramatic intensity that sets the stage for the emotional journey ahead. His interpretation captures the sonata’s juxtaposition of turmoil and tranquility, particularly in the slow movement, where his phrasing is both expansive and intimately nuanced. This balance is crucial in conveying the sonata’s narrative arc, as Rubinstein allows each note to breathe, thereby inviting listeners into the emotional landscape Beethoven meticulously crafted. The clarity of Rubinstein’s left-hand work, particularly in the intricate bass lines, is noteworthy, providing a solid foundation that complements the soaring right-hand melodies.
The “Moonlight” sonata is often celebrated for its ethereal quality, and Rubinstein enhances this aspect with a delicately measured tempo in the first movement. His treatment of the middle movement, frequently dismissed as mere interlude, is a revelation; Rubinstein infuses it with a dramatic pulse that elevates it beyond cliché. The outer movements retain a sense of urgency, with Rubinstein deftly navigating the contrasting textures and dynamics without losing sight of the overall structure. His ability to articulate the dialogue between the hands is particularly striking in the final movement, where the interplay of light and shadow captures the listener’s attention.
In the “Appassionata,” Rubinstein’s interpretation is marked by a tension that builds effectively throughout the work. The first movement unfolds with an inexorable drive, while his attention to detail allows for a rich tapestry of counterpoint to emerge, particularly evident in the second subject’s exchanges. The finale, characterized by its dramatic contrasts, benefits from Rubinstein’s refusal to rush, resulting in a cathartic release when the Presto eventually arrives. This choice underscores a fundamental aspect of Beethoven’s music: the importance of pacing in the unfolding of tension and resolution.
Rubinstein’s recording of “Les Adieux” demonstrates his ability to convey narrative through music. The farewell theme in the first movement is imbued with poignant expressiveness, and the subsequent movements are executed with a combination of introspection and vigor. While some may critique his interpretations as overly romantic in a historical context, they are nonetheless effective in communicating the emotional core of Beethoven’s intentions. The recording quality itself is surprisingly warm and rich, a stark contrast to some of Rubinstein’s earlier, harsher recordings. The engineering allows for an intimate listening experience, showcasing the nuances of Rubinstein’s touch and the resonant qualities of the instrument.
Rubinstein’s interpretations, while not strictly adhering to the more austere expectations set by later generations of Beethoven interpreters, offer a uniquely human perspective on these sonatas. His romantic sensibility breathes life into the music, making it accessible to both neophytes and seasoned listeners alike. Each performance serves as a reminder of Beethoven’s capacity to speak across time, and Rubinstein’s artistry brings these conversations to the fore with a sincerity that resonates profoundly. As such, this collection stands as an essential listen for anyone wishing to explore Beethoven’s piano sonatas through the lens of a masterful interpreter. The richness and communicative power of Rubinstein’s performance invite repeated listenings, ensuring that Beethoven’s timeless messages continue to find their way into the hearts of audiences.
