Description
The renowned nickname "Appassionata," meaning "the passionate," was not given by Beethoven himself but was later attributed to the sonata by subsequent generations. This designation is remarkably fitting, as illustrated by an anecdote from Beethoven's friend Ferdinand Ries, who recounted a walk where Beethoven was either humming or howling, seemingly lost in thought. When Ries inquired about his behavior, Beethoven revealed that he had discovered a theme for the final Allegro of the sonata. This vivid account foreshadows the intense emotion and fervor that permeate the entire work. The latest Urtext edition from G. Henle Publishers draws from the original autograph, which unfortunately suffered significant water damage, as well as the first edition published in Vienna in 1807. This new edition, produced by the esteemed Beethoven workshop of Norbert Gertsch and Murray Perahia, includes fingering suggestions from the distinguished pianist, making this pivotal piece more accessible to performers.
