SOUTHBANK CENTRE

Beethoven’s 32 Piano Sonatas, composed between 1793 and 1823, are central to the literature of the keyboard. To present the complete cycle in live performances within the space of several months is a formidable task. To play the Beethoven sonata cycle within the space of three weeks and in just eight concerts, however, is an enormous test of physical and mental stamina that is not within the reach of every pianist. Daniel Barenboim has lived with this music for many years. He first played the cycle in public in 1960 (Tel Aviv), and has recorded it twice, as well as filming it in Berlin in 2005. Remarkable as this is though, Barenboim must surely be the only person in history to have performed not only the 32 sonatas in this way, but also the cycle of five piano concertos and conducted the cycle of nine symphonies (Royal Festival Hall in 1998, Vienna, Berlin and New York in 2000). These performances will be an enthralling journey in the company of one of the greatest living musicians, and one of the major Southbank Centre events of 2008.

'This cycle looks set to be one of the great experiences of the decade.' (Evening Standard)

Series Savings:
Book 2 - 4 concerts and save 10%
Book 5 - 7 concerts and save 15%
Book 8 concerts and save 20%

Please note: if you are booking online for more than one series, you will need to book each series in separate transactions in order to receive the appropriate series discount. Alternatively, please call the Ticket Office on 0871 663 2500.

Watch an excerpt of Daniel Barenboim performing the Appassionata sonata

Download Barenboim Beethoven Piano Sonata Cycle Brochure (pdf)

Interview

Marshall Marcus, Head of Music at Southbank Centre, meets Daniel Barenboim to find out why the Beethoven Sonata Cycle is so important for him. Listen to the interview below in Related Media...