In Beethoven’s oeuvre, the notion and character of the hero, whether it’s about Napoleon or Prometheus, plays a prominent role. Beethoven’s last and perhaps most significant piano concerto is Piano Concerto in E-flat Major, widely known in the Western world by the adjective “Emperor”, which refers primarily to Napoleon, whom Beethoven worshipped for a long time. With its monumentality, the often heroic task for the pianist and, of course, with the E-flat major tone connecting it to Beethoven’s other heroic works, the piano concerto is an organic part of this cycle of thought.

Gábor Farkas – piano

Presented and conducted by: Gábor Hollerung

Beethoven: Piano Concerto No. 5 in E-flat Major (“Emperor”)