This season, the Wisconsin Union Theater (WUT) welcomes a towering figure of classical music back to the Shannon Hall stage. On Oct. 23, Grammy-nominated pianist Richard Goode returns to Madison to perform selections from one of the greatest bodies of work in classical history: Beethoven’s piano sonatas.
Known as one of the finest living interpreters of Beethoven, Goode combines a deep understanding of Beethoven’s music with clear, heartfelt expression, making every note both meaningful and emotional. His recordings are among the most respected, and hearing him live means experiencing decades of connection and passion brought to life.
“When you’re immersed in Beethoven, you feel that he’s right in the center, and everything else is radiating out from him.”-Richard Goode, The New Yorker
Goode made history as the first American pianist to record the complete Beethoven sonatas, a monumental feat of interpretation and endurance. His 1993 album, “Beethoven: The Complete Sonatas,” spans 101 tracks with more than nine hours of music and remains a gold standard for musicians and listeners alike. Listen here.
Spanning Beethoven’s lifetime, the sonatas range from powerful and stormy, while others are quiet and thoughtful. Together, they trace the story of Beethoven’s music and humanity.
“…the fights that Beethoven had, the sheer effort he put into composing and his struggles to contain a violent and chaotic emotional nature, led to music of extraordinary strength and consolatory power. He believed that those who understood his music would be ‘saved.’”-Richard Goode, The Independent
Goode’s approach is famously unflashy. He doesn’t overpower the music; instead, he invites the audience into a collective understanding of Beethoven’s ideas.
Richard Goode Performs Beethoven's Bagatelle, Op. 119, VI. Andante--Allegretto
Even for longtime fans of classical music, hearing these works performed live by a pianist of Goode’s caliber is something rare. There is intimacy in the performance and timelessness in the material, a perfect pairing for Shannon Hall’s acoustic warmth.
Richard Goode, pianist - Beethoven Sonata No. 31 in A-flat, Op 110, Mvt. 1
Whether you’re new to Beethoven or returning to these sonatas once again, this recital promises an evening of extraordinary music from a true master. Richard Goode performs on Thursday, Oct. 23 in Shannon Hall. Single tickets are on sale now as well as Classical Series and build-your-own subscriptions.