Beethoven: Piano Sonatas, Vol. 2

These memorable performances come from Ivan Moravec's Connoisseur Society recordings of 1962-70. That series, even more than his concerts, helped make the pianist's reputation among (appropriately enough) connoisseurs, as one of our greatest pianists. The disc is truly a collection of wonders: unaffected yet intense performances of familiar music, with never a cliché of interpretation or an indifferent moment. Moravec isn't known as a player of virtuoso showpieces, but the finales of the Moonlight and Appassionata show that he has technique and power in abundance. The recordings, outstanding for their time, still sound realistic and rich-toned. It's a pity that Moravec hasn't recorded more; savvy pianophiles should snap up whatever they can. --Leslie Gerber