Beethoven's last three piano sonatas, written between 1820 and 1822, represent an interpretive Parnassus for pianists. Digressive, expansive, at turns poignant and fanciful, these keyboard works are nearly operatic in scope, and they demand a seasoned, mature, and daring interpreter. Pianist Victor Rosenbaum certainly has the resume for the task; he has performed throughout the world and is in demand as a teacher, serving as a faculty member at three prominent schools of music: Mannes, the New England Conservatory, and Longy. Moreover, he truly understands the multifaceted music that fills Beethoven's late sonatas.

Rosenbaum imparts fiery passion where required, for example in the tempestuous first movement of the Opus 111 sonata. He is also capable of crafting passages of considerable lyricism and poetry - his account of the Opus 110 sonata is quite moving in this regard. The formidable final movement of the Opus 109 is rendered with a shimmering combination of virtuosity and grace.
These are monumental works superlatively performed, and Rosenbaum's Beethoven is likely to please even the most particular Beethoven buff. What's more, if you haven't heard these pieces before (an oversight that is well worth correcting forthwith), this Bridge recording is an excellent starting point. - Christian Carey