"I have not heard Bylsma's earlier recording with Malcolm Bilson- who would be my fortepianist of choice over Immerseel- but this is a great set. The playing is surprisingly romantic for two historical performance experts, but this is in no way a bad thing. While Bylsma's intonation is not always perfect, his texture and feel for the music is exemplary, and his instrument sounds fine indeed. Immerseel also creates a very warm, rich feel with his keyboard playing.Beethoven's cello sonatas are one of those rare sets of works for which there are numerous period performances, most of which would be good choices. Also check out Chrisophe Coin with Patrick Cohen. Anthony Pleeth and Melvyn Tan have a very affordable set as well. I don't think the balance is in favor of the piano, as many critcs have said, but rather quite equal, and the interplay between the two instruments is intricate and captivating. There is a dearth of cello works from the classical period, in my opinion, and even as this veers toward an early romantic sound, it is a most welcome addition to the canon."
Non-Heroic, Mature Beethoven
ymatsui4 | Tanashi, Tokyo Japan | 01/08/2001
(5 out of 5 stars)
"I have been enjoying Beethoven's cello sonatas by (now historical) DuPre-Barenboim live recording, modern piano prevailing over cello. In Bylsma-Immerseel set, the balance is ideal thanks to the early 19 century fortepiano played by Immerseel. The overall atmosphere is intimate and mature. And the difficult Op. 102-2 is played with confidence, without trace of technical difficulty. Recommended to people who does not regard Beethoven as a heroic composer, but a unexpectedly 'orthodox' composer. Recording is vivid. (Only reservation: what a cover picture! Sony should be more esthetic!)"
Beethoven's Wonderful Sonatas
Juan Olvera | Orlando, Florida United States | 04/19/2003
(5 out of 5 stars)
"This is a great Beethoven set. Immerseel and Bylsma do a wonderful job on Beethoven's complex but canorous melodies."
Wonderful music
Pil Sun Choi | Jersey City, NJ USA | 06/07/2009
(5 out of 5 stars)
"Wonderful music. Too bad it is out of print and used prices are again over the top. Try to look for a box set called Anner Bylsma - 70 Years Limited Edition produced by Sony Germany. Set has 11 CDs in total, including these Beethoven Sonatas, Bach cello suites (older recording), Boccherini concertos, Brahms sonatas, etc. Amazon Germany may still carry this, or try on one of those big on-line auction sites (you know which one) - for a reasonable price."