Description

Sonata No. 23 in F Minor, Op. 57, often referred to as "Appassionata," is widely regarded as one of Beethoven's most significant works. The nickname likely originated from a four-hand arrangement titled Sonata appassionata, which was published in Hamburg in 1838. The sonata opens with a striking thematic statement, played two octaves apart and immediately repeated a half step higher, establishing a mood of tension and conflict that permeates the piece. Dr. Stewart Gordon's editions of Beethoven's renowned piano sonatas offer valuable insights for achieving a stylistic performance. His meticulous research of the earliest sources has resulted in an accurate representation of Beethoven's intentions, with each edition providing useful fingering suggestions and performance guidance.