Ludwig van Beethoven - Complete Sonatas for Violin and Piano (Andrew Smith; Joshua Pierce)

Information

Composer: Ludwig van Beethoven

CD1

• Violin Sonata No. 1 in D, Op. 12 No. 1
• Violin Sonata No. 2 in A, Op. 12 No. 2
• Violin Sonata No. 3 in E-Flat, Op. 12 No. 3

CD2

• Violin Sonata No. 4 in A Minor, Op. 23
• Violin Sonata No. 5 in F, Op. 24 ‘Spring’

CD3

• Violin Sonata No. 6 in A, Op. 30 No. 1
• Violin Sonata No. 7 in C Minor, Op. 30 No. 2
• Violin Sonata No. 8 in G, Op. 30 No. 3

CD4

• Violin Sonata No. 9 in A, Op. 47 ‘Kreutzer’
• Violin Sonata No. 10 in G, Op. 96

Andrew Smith, violin

Joshua Pierce, piano

Date: 2026

Label: MSR Classics

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Ludwig van Beethoven’s complete violin sonatas are presented in Beethoven: Complete Sonatas by violinist Andrew Smith and pianist Joshua Pierce. The recording traces the full evolution of the sonata form across Beethoven’s career, from early classical structures to more expansive and expressive later works that redefine the relationship between violin and piano as an equal partnership. Spanning more than two decades of compositional development, the cycle highlights Beethoven’s increasing sophistication in form, texture, and emotional depth. Smith and Pierce deliver a performance characterized by clarity, balance, and technical precision, offering a cohesive interpretation of one of the most significant bodies of chamber music in the repertoire.

Andrew Smith is a versatile violinist, composer, and educator known for his virtuosic technique, interpretive insight, and expressive tone. He made his London debut at the Royal Festival Hall and has since performed at major venues including Carnegie Hall, Lincoln Center, and the Edinburgh International Festival, with broadcasts across Europe, Asia, and North America. He has recorded widely, including acclaimed collaborations with pianist Joshua Pierce on the complete Mozart and Beethoven violin sonatas. Smith is also active in contemporary music, working with composers such as Sir Peter Maxwell Davies and John Corigliano, and has composed works commissioned by organizations including the BBC. Alongside his performing career, he has founded ensembles and led festivals, contributing significantly to both performance and new music advocacy.

Joshua Pierce is an internationally acclaimed, Grammy-nominated pianist recognized for a prolific career spanning solo, orchestral, and chamber performance. He has appeared with major orchestras including the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra, Berlin Radio Symphony Orchestra, and numerous ensembles across Europe, North and South America, and Asia, as well as at leading venues such as Carnegie Hall and Lincoln Center. With a discography exceeding 270 works on more than 75 recordings, his repertoire spans from Baroque to contemporary music, including landmark interpretations of John Cage. Pierce is also an award-winning chamber musician and collaborator, with extensive international partnerships and recognition for his contributions to both standard and modern piano literature.