Beethoven: Piano Sonatas, Vol. 6 (Nos. 9, 13 & 29 "Hammerklavier")

Beethoven: Piano Sonatas, Vol. 6 (Nos. 9, 13 & 29 "Hammerklavier")

The sixth volume of Jonathan Biss’ run-through of the Beethoven sonatas contains what many call the composer’s most monumental and labyrinthine work in the genre: the “Hammerklavier.” Its “Adagio sostenuto” bears the perfect balance of pathos and despair, with Biss giving each chord and melody perfect calculation and nuanced delivery.