Pianist Jeffrey Swann wraps up an eight-concert
series, performing all 32 of Beethoven’s piano sonatas, in Bargemusic
recitals Aug. 12-15.
"The piano was Beethoven’s laboratory, and [sonatas were]
an ongoing lab experiment," the 52-year-old Manhattan resident
told GO Brooklyn.
Swann divides the programs thematically. The "Beethoven
and Humor" program, on Friday, Aug. 13, sounds especially
diverting.
"I love that program, because these six sonatas are never
heard that often," said the pianist. "His humorous,
witty side is mostly downplayed, but there are jokes galore."
Swann offered a couple of examples: "In the sonata Op. 10,
No. 2, the recapitulation is normal – but in the wrong key! Then
there’s silence, as if Beethoven thought, ’Uh oh – what have
I done?’ Then there’s a modulation and he returns to the right
key."
On Aug. 14, "The Tragic Voice" includes Beethoven’s
most famous sonata, "Moonlight," which Swann notes
"was so popular that [Beethoven] got sick of it and made
disparaging comments about it."
But Swann disagrees: "It’s never become hackneyed to me,
so I can approach it for what it is – an innovative work."
On Aug. 15, the final program, "Stylistic Overview,"
concludes with the C-minor sonata, opus 111, the last Beethoven
composed.
"To end with that seems natural," said Swann. "Its
own ending is a definite summation, with all its musical problems
solved. For me, it fulfills very well the role of an ending."
To complement his programs, Swann talks before each performance.
"I discuss the program’s theme, then talk a bit about each
sonata," he explained. "I think it’s useful for most
members of the audience."
For Swann, Bargemusic’s audience is an active participant.
"You develop a camaraderie with the audience, like taking
a long voyage together," he said. "The barge is a wonderful
place for that – the audience is right on top of you."
The Beethoven piano sonatas will be performed Aug. 12-14 at 7:30
pm, and Aug. 15 at 2 pm at Bargemusic (Fulton Ferry Landing at
the end of Old Fulton Street on the East River). Tickets are
$35, $20 for full-time students. For more information, visit
www.bargemusic.org or
call (718) 624-2083.
