Damian Thompson Damian Thompson

Beethoven’s 32 piano sonatas were his musical laboratory – here are the best recordings

The sonatas are where Beethoven’s imagination catches fire most unpredictably

Martino Tirimo's new complete cycle of Beethoven piano sonatas is the greatest recordied achievement of the 250th anniversary. Here is Tirimo carrying the Olympic flame in 2004. Photo: Todd Warshaw / Getty Images

Already a subscriber? Log in

This article is for subscribers only

Subscribe today to get 3 months' delivery of the magazine, as well as online and app access, for only £3.

There’s no commitment, you can cancel any time.

  • Weekly delivery of the magazine
  • Unlimited access to our website and app
  • Enjoy Spectator newsletters and podcasts
  • Explore our online archive, going back to 1828

Comments

A blooming good offer

Join the conversation with other Spectator readers by getting the next 3 months for £3.

Already a subscriber? Log in