Beethoven for Three: Symphonies No. 2 & 5 (CD)

Exploring two of Beethoven’s iconic symphonies in unique trio arrangements, Beethoven for Three puts the boundless talent of three incredible performers — Emanuel Ax, Leonidas Kavakos and Yo-Yo Ma — to the test. These arrangements maintain all the power and immediacy of the composer’s orchestral works within the intimate language of a chamber ensemble. When all is said and done, the performances heard here challenge the traditional boundary between chamber and orchestral repertoire, offering the listener a new relationship with two of Beethoven’s most loved creations.

The Second Symphony’s arrangement is attributed to Beethoven’s friend and student Ferdinand Ries, working under the composer’s supervision. The Fifth is a brand-new arrangement by contemporary English composer Colin Matthews.

Beethoven Symphony No. 2 in D Major, Op. 36 (arr. Ferdinand Ries)
Emanuel Ax piano
Leonidas Kavakos violin
Yo-Yo Ma cello

Beethoven Symphony No. 5 in C Minor, Op. 67 (arr. Colin Matthews)
Emanuel Ax piano
Leonidas Kavakos violin
Yo-Yo Ma cello

Discs: 1
Record Label: Sony
Release Date: March 4, 2022