Beethoven - Canzona di Ringraziamento

This is one of the last compositions of Beethoven. He wrote this slow movement of his 15^th quartet as thanksviging for having survived a near-fatal illness. It's a deeply moving piece and widely regarded as one of his greatest masterpieces (as the rest of the late quartets). I recommend listening to this piece (and preferably the entire quartet, of course) in complete silence; if one listens carefully, one cannot help but to share the existential experience felt as communicated by the master.

This is a legendary recording by the Julliard Quartet.



Ludwig van Beethoven : Quartet #15 Molto Adagio (Heiliger Dankgesang eines Genesenen an die Gottheit, in der lydischen Tonart).
Interpreter: Julliard Quartet
Album: Beethoven : Complete String Quartets.

Beethoven - Rage Over a Lost Penny

Although this work is not one of Beethoven's great masterpieces, it has personal value since it reminds me of some happy moments of my childhood. I hope you enjoy it!


Ludwig van Beethoven : Rondo: Rage Over a Lost Penny
(wikipedia)
Interpreter: Gianluca Cascioli
Album: Complete Beethoven Edition Vol. 6 - Piano Works

Beethoven - String Quartet # 13, Cavatina

This is one of Beethoven's most intimate confessions. He said himself that never did music move him so much. There is here sorrow without hope, sorrow for what is irrevocable, and for a longing for what has not been and never can be. -- J.W.N. Sullivan



Ludwig van Beethoven : Quartet 13 Op 130 in Bb - 5th movement. Cavatina: Adagio Molto Espressivo.

Interpreter: Julliard Quartet
Album: Beethoven : Complete String Quartets.

Puccini - Vissi d'Arte

Puccini : Vissi d'arte (from Tosca)

Interpreter: Kiri Te Kanawa
Album: Kiri Te Kanawa - Verdi & Puccini