Ludwig van Beethoven - Beethoven: Piano Concertos 1 & 4

Beethoven's 'Piano Concertos' are a precious source for understanding the history of the practice of this instrument, which, in the early nineteenth century, permanently replaced the harpsichord in the hearts of composers. Thus one can still hear the galant influence of Mozart in the 'First Concerto' (1795-1800), whereas the 'Fourth' (1805-06) reveals the introspective personality, at once vigorous and generous, of a Beethoven at the height of his artistic maturity. In this instalment of his recording of the complete concertos, the German pianist Martin Helmchen performs these two contrasting works with Andrew Manze and the Deutsches Symphonie-Orchester Berlin.

1) I. Allegro Con Brio ()
2) II. Largo ()
3) III. Rondo: Allegro ()
4) I. Allegro Moderato ()
5) II. Andante Con Moto ()
6) III. Rondo: Vivace ()