Beethoven – Piano Sonatas by Wilhelm Backhaus – 2 CDs

Beethoven and Backhaus: a date with the piano

A familiar melody, a newly discovered movement, a detail you want to hear again: this classical piano double CD invites you to savour Beethoven at home. Make an evening of it or choose a single movement for a musical pause.

Seven sonatas with contrasting moods

The first disc brings together the Pathétique, Moonlight, Appassionata and Les Adieux sonatas. The second continues with the Pastoral, Tempest and Waldstein. From intimate slow movements to energetic finales, the programme explores different sides of Beethoven’s piano writing.

A set to give and return to

Wilhelm Backhaus performs the entire programme at the piano. The two discs offer 129 minutes and 51 seconds of music to enjoy in sequence or in shorter sessions. Choose this Decca edition for an amateur pianist, a music-loving friend or your own collection: a gift to rediscover with each listen.

Frequently asked questions

How many works are included?

7 Beethoven piano sonatas across 22 tracks on 2 CDs.

Who performs the sonatas?

Pianist Wilhelm Backhaus performs all the works in this programme.

Who would appreciate this edition?

A lover of piano music, Beethoven or classical repertoire, for a birthday, the festive season or a thoughtful musical gift.

Complete track listing

CD 1

Piano Sonata No. 8 In C Minor, Op. 13 "Pathétique" - (15:29)

1. Grave - Allegro Di Molto E Con Brio - 6:14
2. Adagio Cantabile - 4:47
3. Rondo: Allegro - 4:28

Piano Sonata No. 14 In C Sharp Minor, Op. 27/2 "Moonlight" - (15:20)

4. Adagio Sostenuto - Attacca - 5:42
5. Allegretto & Trio - 2:17
6. Presto Agitato - 7:21

Piano Sonata No. 23 In F Minor, Op. 57 "Appassionata" - (20:56)

7. Allegro Assai - 9:33
8. Andante Con Moto - 5:56
9. Allegro Ma Non Troppo - Presto - 5:27

Piano Sonata No. 26 In E Flat Major, Op. 81a "Les Adieux" - (16:08)

10. Das Lebewohl (Les Adieux): Adagio - Allegro - 6:56
11. Abwesenheit (L'Absence): Andante Espressivo - 3:07
12. Das Wiedersehen (Le Retour): Vivacissimamente - Poco Andante- Tempo I - 6:05

CD 2

Piano Sonata No. 15 In D Major, Op. 28 "Pastoral" - (19:07)

1. Allegro - 6:42
2. Andante - 6:24
3. Scherzo & Trio: Allegro Vivace - 1:51
4. Rondo: Allegro Ma Non Troppo - 4:10

Piano Sonata No. 17 In D Minor, Op. 31/2 "Tempest" - (21:10)

5. Largo - Allegro - 8:29
6. Adagio - 6:15
7. Allegretto - 6:27

Piano Sonata No. 21 In C Major, Op. 53 "Waldstein" - (21:41)

8. Allegro Con Brio - 8:48
9. Introduzione: Adagio Molto - Attacca - 3:12
10. Rondo. Allegretto Moderato - Prestissimo - 9:41