Various Composers - Barenboim A-Z. Beethoven

Information

Composer: Ludwig van Beethoven

• Piano Sonatas Nos. 8, 14, 21, 23, 29 & 32 (Recorded 1958)
• Piano Sonatas Nos. 1–32 (Recorded 1981–1984)

Daniel Barenboim, piano

Compilation: 2026

Label: Deutsche Grammophon

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Ludwig van Beethoven (1770–1827) was a German composer and pianist whose work bridges the Classical and Romantic eras and remains central to the Western canon. Born in Bonn, he studied with Joseph Haydn in Vienna and gained renown as a virtuoso pianist. Despite progressive deafness, he produced landmark works including nine symphonies, notably the choral Ninth, five piano concertos, 32 piano sonatas, 16 string quartets, the opera Fidelio, and the Missa solemnis. His career is often divided into early, “heroic” middle, and late periods, the latter marked by profound formal innovation and expressive depth.

Daniel Barenboim (born 1942 in Buenos Aires) is an Israeli pianist and conductor renowned for both his musicianship and his efforts to foster Middle Eastern dialogue through music. A child prodigy trained by pianist parents, he debuted internationally in the 1950s and became celebrated for his vivid interpretations of Mozart and Beethoven. He began conducting in 1962 and later led major ensembles, serving as music director of the Orchestre de Paris (1975–89), the Chicago Symphony Orchestra (1991–2006), and the Berlin State Opera (from 1992). In 1999 he co-founded the West-Eastern Divan Orchestra with Edward Said. His career also includes writings, awards, and occasional controversies.