NEC Presents: Beethoven's Complete Works for Piano: Part XII

75 NEC pianists present every work for piano that Beethoven ever wrote over the course of 13 recitals in spring and fall 2020. Hear well-known favorites like the “Moonlight” Sonata alongside rarely-performed works and decide for yourself: what does Beethoven mean today?

A virtuoso pianist himself, Beethoven composed dozens of works for the fortepiano, often making use of the new musical resources of the instrument as it developed rapidly throughout the composer’s lifetime. Approximately 1/3 of each concert program will feature rarely performed sets of variations that may offer insight into Beethoven’s own performances as an improviser.

The NEC Piano Department dedicates this Beethoven 2020 project to Distinguished Artist-in-Residence Russell Sherman who celebrates his ninetieth birthday in 2020.  Mr. Sherman was the first American musician to record all of Beethoven’s piano sonatas and concertos. He has been a member of the New England Conservatory faculty since 1967.

Program:

Six variations on a Swiss Song, WoO 64 (1790-92)

Six variations on a theme in F Major, op. 34 (1802)

Sonata in F Major, WoO 50 (1790-92)

Rondo in C Major, op. 51 no. 1 (1797)

Rondo in G Major, op. 51 no. 2 (1797)

Sonata in D Major for Piano Four Hands, op. 6 (1797)
I. Allegro molto
II. Rondo: Moderato

Sonata No. 15 in D Major (“Pastorale”), op. 28 (1801)
I. Allegro
II. Andante
III. Scherzo: Allegro vivace
IV. Rondo: Allegro ma non troppo