Beethoven: Piano Concertos, Vol. 2

Inon Barnatan’s second volume of Beethoven piano concertos includes a compelling performance of Piano Concerto No. 5 “Emperor” with a meltingly beautiful Larghetto. But it’s the two rarities here that prove the biggest draw. Barnatan is a pianist of rare emotional restraint for whom less is more—perfect for Beethoven’s delicate arrangement for piano of his Violin Concerto, with its original cadenzas and striking harmonic modifications. The Choral Fantasy has always raised eyebrows for its quirky piano improvisation and Beethoven’s decision to leave the chorus until the final minutes. But there’s such a joyful abandon to Barnatan’s playing, bolstered by the sheer energy emanating from orchestra and choir, that the Fantasy reveals itself as a spontaneous work of genius.