BEETHOVEN 250: THE COMPLETE PIANO SONATAS

You’ve heard Beethoven’s name and music, but uncover the secrets behind the composer and listen to some of his compositions in ways you’ve never done so before.

He rewrote the rule book for future generations of musicians, composed the four most distinguishable notes in music history and infamously continued to create works of great magnitude after he lost his hearing. It is undeniable that Beethoven was a revolutionary figure of his time. From his own piano playing to his composing, Beethoven shaped music history as we know it.

Beethoven’s successes as a pianist, technician and improviser have thus cemented his name into musical history. Indeed, his influence still pervades into the modern day. From advertising to ring tones, Beethoven’s melodies are prevalent on a global basis, with his name and works being known to everyone, regardless of where their own musical interests and passions lie.

It is for this reason that 2020, the 250th anniversary of his birth, is held so highly within the classical music calendar. Here at Lakeside Arts, this celebration does not go amiss, which is why we’re joining forces with our friends over at the Royal Concert Hall to put on a programme of events like no other.

In what will be a Nottingham first, all thirty-two of his piano sonatas will be performed across the two venues in ten concerts over four days. Featuring a line-up of leading international artists from across the globe, Beethoven 250: the Complete Piano Sonatas will kick-off on Thursday 14 May 2020 and will commence on Sunday 18 May 2020. 

To compliment these concerts, the festival will also include a series of illustrative talks, Q&As and fringe performances. So, in addition to immersing yourself into the world of Beethoven’s discography, learn about the man behind the music and uncover a deeper meaning to his compositions, before listening to his sonatas with new ears.