Also included are 6 master classes with some of the world’s most notable young pianists, where the legendary man imparts his wisdom to the next generation.
“An expensive six-CD set, four of which feature Barenboim recorded live in 2005 in all 32 Beethoven sonatas. But it is the two discs of masterclasses given in Chicago the same year that, for all the fine (and not so fine) concerts in Berlin, grab the attention. Pianists, including Jonathan Biss, Alessio Bax and Lang Lang, are shown the finer points of Beethoven interpretation through a charismatic master.” Gramophone Magazine, April 2008
“For those seeking a home-video Beethoven cycle featuring an established, internationally acclaimed artist, Barenboim's is the only game in town for now. …Barenboim's technique remains never less than solid and world-class. …the set's most provocative revelations appear on the final two discs in the form of masterclasses in Chicago in 2005. Six young pianists (including familiar names such as Lang Lang, Jonathan Biss and Alessio Bax) each play a movement from a sonata. Barenboim...guides the pianists through details of articulation, tempo relationships, dynamics, pedalling and harmonic motion, helping their interpretations attain greater clarity and specificity.” Gramophone Magazine, August 2007
“…Daniel Barenboim is a great teacher. The last two DVDs, of master-classes that he gave in Chicago in 2005, demonstrate that to magnificent effect. It is a master-class above all in teaching, and also a rebuke to easy listening; he really persuades the viewer as well as the player that every note counts, and the balance of every note in a chord, and so on.” BBC Music Magazine, April 2007 ****
Gramophone Magazine
Penguin Guide
