It is not uncommon for artists to return to previously recorded repertoire, perhaps in another musical pairing or with a fresh attitude and interpretation. However, it is rare that musicians return to entire collections. Wilhelm Kempff did just this and was the first to record the complete Beethoven cycle twice, first in the 1950’s and then again in stereo a decade late. A pianist who’s devotion to Beethoven is unmatched and a player that inspires such a deep level of understanding in the composer. Kempff’s Appassionata is a highlight of this release, delivering a more delicate approach than can be heard in other recordings which allows other elements of the composition to shine through, such as the lyrical nature of Beethoven’s writing.