The common myth that Beethoven was a somewhat morose and antisocial character is not a wholly accurate portrayal of this iconic and inventive composer. Despite his progressive deafness which made socialising difficult, it is well documented that he enjoyed company, was full of witty remarks and never short of a clever pun. Much of this transcends into his music, having even invented the musical joke (the Scherzo), and is possibly one of the many reasons his music has enjoyed lasting popularity.
First performed in 1795, his Piano Concerto No. 2 was the first full-length orchestral piece Beethoven had ever written; written, in fact, before the concerto we know today as his Piano Concerto No. 1. With a combination of beauty, playfulness and unpredictability, extreme emotional depth and intelligent characterisations bringing the music to life, it is no wonder that this work is still tremendously popular with pianists and audiences alike. Its infectious tunes, imaginative orchestrations and intellectual rigour giving a glimpse of the greatness to come from this wonderful composer at the outset of his career.
Programme Note © Amy Campbell
