Beethoven: The Piano Sonatas, Vol. 5 (Opp. 31 and 53)

The release of the fifth volume of András Schiff's complete recordings of the Beethoven piano sonatas marks the start of an incredible musical journey for Mr. Schiff, and his USA concert audiences. On October 3rd, Schiff begins a twoseason tour running through Spring 2009 during which he will perform all 32 sonatas (in chronological order) in four cities: New York, San Francisco, Los Angeles and Ann Arbor. The sonatas on Volume V, from Beethoven's so called "middle period" (the first years of the 19th century), include the famed "Waldstein" - Sonata No. 21 C major op. 53. Also included is the original slow movement from the "Waldstein," the "Andante favori," which Beethoven later dismissed out of formal considerations. Whether performing Bach, Beethoven, Janácek or Mozart, András Schiff is one of the most heralded and acclaimed pianists of his generation. The New York Times says "Mr. Schiff has been playing for so long with such elegant pianism, consummate artistry and selfless dedication that it is easy to take him for granted." The upcoming Beethoven cycle will surely remind people not to! András Schiff is a native of Hungary and has recorded for ECM since 1997.