Beethoven |Rarities

Three rarely recorded works from three different creative phases of the great Ludwig van Beethoven are featured on this CD: First up is the Piano Concerto in D major. Originally a violin concerto, Beethoven adapted the work for the piano on the advice of pianist and composer Muzio Clementi (1752-1832), who was enthusiastic about it. It is followed by the Ritterballett (“Ballet of Knights”), which was composed by Beethoven at the age of 20 and premiered on Carnival Sunday in 1791. The CD concludes with the famous “Battle Symphony”: inspiring programme music for a Europe liberated from Napoleon. In terms of musical drama, this work leaves nothing to be desired. The young pianist Claire Huangci strikes a wonderful balance of tempi and phrasing. Together with the Brandenburg State Orchestra Frankfurt (Oder) under the direction of Howard Griffiths, an incredibly fresh and energetic performance of these three extraordinary works by Beethoven is achieved.