Piano Sonata No.17 In D Minor, Op.31 No.2 / Piano Sonata No.18 In E Flat Major, Op.31 No.3

This recording features the Romanian pianist Clara Haskil performing two of Ludwig van Beethoven's late-middle period sonatas. Part of the Philips catalog, this specific release from 1979 serves as a reissue of sessions originally recorded in the 1960s. The 'Tempest' Sonata (Op. 31, No. 2) and the 'Hunt' Sonata (Op. 31, No. 3) capture Haskil’s signature approach, characterized by a refined, intellectually rigorous, and rhythmically precise style that favored clarity over romantic indulgence.

Clara Haskil was widely revered for her Mozart and Beethoven interpretations, and her collaboration with Philips during this era was instrumental in solidifying her legacy after her passing. The design of these Philips pressings typically emphasized the seriousness of the performances through minimalist, austere cover art and informative liner notes that contextualized the sonatas within Beethoven's development. Haskil's recordings remain benchmarks for many pianists for their tonal purity and the absence of extraneous affectation.