There is hardly a better way to approach Ludwig van Beethoven than through his piano concertos. Beethoven’s own instrument was the piano, and in his improvisations – which made him the darling of the Viennese salons – he merged virtuosity and unbridled expression. The piano concertos give a clear idea of these performances.At the same time, they are prime examples of Beethoven’s ability to create large orchestral works with seemingly endless arcs of tension.
The complete recording of all five works with Mitsuko Uchida and Sir Simon Rattle was one of the most spectacular projects of the Berliner Philharmoniker during the Rattle era – and at the same time the highlight of the collaboration between the orchestra and the pianist, which began in 1984.
For the first time, the symphonies are now being released as an exclusive vinyl edition, limited to 1500 copies worldwide. The 5 LPs are pressed on 180g and presented in a luxurious box set alongside
a booklet and a Blu-ray Disc containing all concert videos and an interview with Mitsuko Uchida