1.1 * J.S. Bach: Partita No. 6 in E minor, BWV 830
1.2 I. Toccata
1.3 II. Allemande
1.4 III. Corrente
1.5 IV. Air
1.6 V. Sarabande
1.7 VI. Tempo Di Gavotta
1.8 VII. Gigue
1.9 * Franz Schubert: Piano Sonata No. 6 in E minor, D. 566
1.10 I. Moderato
1.11 II. Allegretto
1.12 * Ludwig Van Beethoven: Piano Sonata No. 30 in E Major, Op. 109
1.13 I. Vivace Ma Non Troppo - Adagio Espressivo
1.14 II. Prestissimo
1.15 III. Andante Molto Cantabile Ed Espressivo
Description:
"Opus 109" on CD by pianist Víkingur Ólafsson is an intimate and intellectually rich tribute to one of the key works in the late piano output of Ludwig van Beethoven. Centered around the Piano Sonata No. 30 in E major, Op. 109, the album explores the spiritual depth, formal freedom, and poetic concentration of this masterpiece, often described as one of Beethoven's most inward, visionary creations. With his characteristic clarity of articulation, finely shaded dynamics, and sense for long, singing lines, Ólafsson sculpts a reading that is both transparent and deeply emotional, making even the most complex passages feel natural and direct. The recording captures the full range of the modern concert grand, from whisper-quiet introspection to radiant, organ-like sonorities, offering listeners an immersive and contemplative listening experience.
Produced by Deutsche Grammophon, this CD combines audiophile sound quality with a carefully curated, artist-centered presentation. The label is renowned worldwide as one of the most prestigious classical-music imprints, with a history tracing back to the late 19th century and a catalogue that includes legendary recordings by artists such as Herbert von Karajan, Martha Argerich and Anne-Sophie Mutter. Deutsche Grammophon stands for meticulous production values, stylistic authenticity and innovative programming, bringing together tradition and modernity. With "Opus 109", the label once again underlines its commitment to exceptional soloists and thoughtfully conceived repertoire projects.
Víkingur Ólafsson has emerged in recent years as one of the most distinctive and influential pianists of his generation. Known for his highly personal yet rigorously thought-out interpretations, he has gained international recognition through critically acclaimed albums that have climbed classical charts and won major awards. His recordings of Bach, Debussy, Rameau and others have been praised for their luminous sound, architectural clarity and emotional intensity, leading to performances on leading stages and collaborations with top orchestras and conductors. With "Opus 109", Ólafsson turns his attention to Beethoven's late style, further cementing his reputation as an artist who can illuminate familiar masterpieces from a fresh, contemporary perspective while remaining faithful to the score's spirit and structural logic.