Hammerklavier Live
Aldi Lá, 2020
8/10
A Brooklyn based pianist who debuted with the Philadelphia Orchestra at age 12, Beth Levin has enjoyed an accomplished career and here she returns with her 4th live album, where she performs Beethoven, Handel and Eliasson live.
Handel’s “Suite In D Minor” starts the listen as Levin’s poetic keys dance around playful melodies as well as calm ebbs of grace and beauty that occasionally burst into cathartic swells of emotion. “Disegno No. 3”, by Eliasson, follows and brings a dynamic, artistic quality to the listen where a poetic delivery unfolds with eloquence.
The bulk of the listen is Beethoven’s “Piano Sonata No. 29 in B-Flat Major Op. 106”, which Levin executes with plenty of flair and a tremendous amount of skill as she navigates the highs and lows of the interpretation that is so well done, it alone is worth the price of admission.
If your interests revolve around piano sounds and the rich history of classical music, Levin won’t disappoint you on this meticulous and fascinating performance.
Travels well with: Orli Shaham- Mozart Complete Piano Sonatas; Ludwig Van Beethoven- Complete Sonatas For Piano & Violin On Historic Instruments