Wilhelm Backhaus was a German pianist who was active from the first half to the middle of the 20th century and is highly regarded, especially for his performances of Beethoven. Backhaus's performances are structurally very clear and faithful to the score. His characteristic approach is to strictly, but with rich tone, reproduce the notes written in the score, rather than exaggerating emotions. These three sonatas on this CD were recorded when he was in his mid-70s, but they are stable performances that do not make you feel any decline in technique, and are praised as "the artistry of the old master." However, some critics have said that his playing is "somewhat mechanical" and "lacks emotional expression," and this stoic style may seem "stiff" to those who prefer Romantic expression. Please compare it with Richter, Gould, or Kempff. Wilhelm Backhaus (piano) Beethoven ① Piano Sonata No. 14 in C-sharp minor, Op. 27-2 "Moonlight" ② Piano Sonata No. 8 in C minor, Op. 13 "Pathétique" ③ Piano Sonata No. 23 in F minor, Op. 57 "Appassionata" Recording: October 1958 (①②), October & November 1959 (③), Geneva Decca domestic edition (manufactured in 1997) ※ Although the jacket indicates that ① was recorded in 1961, according to various documents, it should have been recorded in 1958.