Beethoven - Piano Sonata No. 11, Op. 22 (PDF Sheet Music / Digital Download)

Often hailed as the pinnacle of Beethoven's "early period" sonatas and a personal favorite of the composer himself, the Piano Sonata No. 11 in B-flat Major, Op. 22, is a masterclass in classical form and elegance. Composed around 1800 and dedicated to Count Johann Georg von Browne, this four-movement work is a testament to Beethoven's absolute command of the piano and his ability to craft music of exceptional beauty and structural integrity.

While later sonatas would explore more revolutionary harmonic and formal ideas, Op. 22 showcases Beethoven's refined adherence to classical principles, yet imbued with his distinctive depth and power. It's a work he was notably proud of, reportedly calling it "really something" to his publisher.

About the editor

Frederic Lamond occupies a significant position in the historical lineage of Beethoven interpreters, his influence extending profoundly to the piano sonatas. A direct pupil of Franz Liszt—who himself maintained connections to Beethoven's circle through Carl Czerny—Lamond was a dedicated custodian of a grand tradition in Beethoven performance. His interpretations, documented in recordings from the 1920s and 1930s, are often characterised by their robust character, dramatic contrasts, and an almost improvisatory freedom, reflecting a less overtly "perfected" but deeply personal engagement with the music.

Crucially, Lamond's legacy is also cemented by his own 1923 edition of the complete Beethoven Piano Sonatas, published by Breitkopf & Härtel. This edition stands apart from many contemporary "instructive editions" by its meticulous respect for the musical text; Lamond chose not to directly alter the printed notes. Instead, his contribution lies in the provision of insightful fingerings and illuminating interpretive suggestions, often presented as judicious footnotes. These annotations guide pianists on nuanced aspects such as ornamentation and the precise execution of pauses, offering a unique and invaluable historical perspective on performance practice. Lamond's edition thus serves as an essential resource for serious musicians seeking a profound understanding of Beethoven's keyboard masterworks.

This Mondschein Studio edition is a reissue of music originally published by Breitkopf & Härtel.