Beethoven L. Concerto No 3 (C minor). For two pianos

Ludwig van Beethoven (1770–1827) — is one of the greatest geniuses in the history of classical music. He does not fall into any style, though formally by his musis features it can be attributed to Wien classicism. Beethoven wrote in total 5 Concertos for piano and orchestra and a considerable period of time passed between the first and the fifth resulting in every of them having its own style and its own personality, one could say.

The 3rd Concerto op 37 is an age mate of the XIX century, it is written in 1800 and dedicated to the Prussian prince Louis Ferdinand. It was premiered by Beethoven himself as a pianist and ever since it has been successfully (more or less) played all around the world. This Concerto was written in the early period of his life. The same period witnesses the birth of his first six quartets, 11 and 12th piano sonatas. All the drama and thunder are still ahead. However, the 8th sonata is already written and the choice of the tragic с minor also predetermines the character of the concerto. Forebodings of the mature Beethoven style are in place. This can be seen also from the tendency of ‘symphonizing’ the concept of instrumental concerto, turning the competition into the symphony with the obligatory solo part. This tendency would dominate after his time as it dominates the instrumental concerto now.

The Eugen D’Albert edition of the Concerto is popular until now. Eugen D’Albert (1864–1932) is a pupil of the great virtuoso Ferenz Liszt, he taught in Berlin Conservatoire and served as a court pianist of the Duke of Weimar.

Many great pianists of all times played this Concerto, such as Arthur Schnabel, Solomon Cutner. Arturo Benedetti-Michelangeli , Mauritio Pollini, Claudio Arrau, Glenn Could, Alfred Brendel and many, many others. This edition is addressed to the students of Conservatoire, Colleges and senior music schools pupils.

     I. Allegro con brio
     II. Largo
     III. Rondo. Allegro