Accompanied by the Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra (Wiener Philharmoniker), the American composer, conductor, author, music lecturer, and pianist Leonard Bernstein performs Ludwig van Beethoven’s Piano Concerto No. 1 in C major, Op. 15. Bernstein also conducts the Vienna Philharmonic. Recorded at the Wiener Musikverein in 1970.
Ludwig van Beethoven’s Piano Concerto No. 1
Beethoven’s 1st piano concerto was written between 1796 and 1797. Dedicated to his pupil Countess of Bratislava, Anna Louise Barbara (“Babette”) Keglevics, its first performance was in Prague in 1798, with Beethoven himself playing the piano. The program also included Beethoven’s Septet, his Symphony No. 1, along with a Mozart symphony and selections from Haydn’s oratorio The Creation.
Although this was Beethoven’s first piano concerto to be published, it was, in fact, his third attempt at the genre, following an unpublished piano concerto in E-flat major (not to be confused with Beethoven’s more famous “Emperor” concerto, also in E-flat) and the Piano Concerto No. 2, published after Piano Concerto No. 1 (in 1801) but composed almost ten years earlier.
Movements
1. Allegro con brio
Constructed like a sonata begins with the presentation of the two themes by the orchestra: the first one is of great joy, tuned by an orchestral tutti, and is generously linked to the second theme which is softer and more lyrical. Borrowing a technique from Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart’s manner of composition, the piano does not start with the theme presented by the orchestra, but with an innovative musical idea, and the themes proper are later presented by the instrumental soloists.
2. Largo
The second movement is a lyrical and serene Largo that highlights Beethoven’s ability to create profound emotional depth. The piano introduces a delicate, song-like theme that weaves gently through the orchestral accompaniment. The slow pace and rich harmonies provide a moment of calm and reflection between the energetic outer movements. It’s a showcase of Beethoven’s lyrical side, with the piano leading the way in delicate, expressive phrases.
3. Allegro scherzando
The third movement of Beethoven’s Piano Concerto No. 1 is a lively rondo, marked Allegro scherzando, full of rhythmic vitality and playfulness. The piano and orchestra engage in a joyful dialogue, with the piano introducing a spirited theme that recurs throughout the movement. The playful nature of the rondo form is enhanced by Beethoven’s witty and light-hearted treatment of the material, making the finale an exuberant conclusion to the concerto.
Sources
- Piano Concerto No. 1 (Beethoven) on Wikipedia
- Leonard Bernstein on Wikipedia
