Beethoven - Piano Sonata No. 29, Op. 106 (PDF Sheet Music / Digital Download)

Introducing the Beethoven Piano Sonata No. 29 in B-flat major, Op. 106, "Hammerklavier" – a monumental colossus that stands as the Everest of the piano repertoire. Composed between 1817 and 1818, this sonata is a work of staggering scale, intellectual rigor, and emotional profundity, representing the pinnacle of Beethoven's late-period genius.

The nickname "Hammerklavier," a term requested by Beethoven himself, refers to the piano as a "hammer-keyboard," a fitting description for a work of such immense power and heroic force. The Op. 106 is a test of a performer's physical strength, intellectual stamina, and emotional depth, and for the listener, it is a journey of epic proportions.

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.