NPR

The Pianist Who First Climbed Beethoven's Mount Everest

Artur Schnabel was the first pianist to record all 32 of Beethoven's Piano Sonatas. The cycle, made in the 1930s, has just been entered into the Library of Congress.
Austrian classical pianist Artur Schnabel, circa 1940.

Artur Schnabel, one of the game-changing pianists of the 20th century and one of the first piano stars of the phonograph, is being celebrated today by the Library of Congress. His recordings of Beethoven's Piano Sonatas, made between 1932-1935 and collected in , have been entered into the as an

You’re reading a preview, subscribe to read more.

More from NPR

NPR3 min read
How Much Should I Spend On A Wedding Present? Life Kit's Tips Of The Month
Our April roundup of expert advice includes a nifty negotiation tactic, guidance on how to prevent digital eye strain and why you should travel during 'shoulder season.'
NPR2 min read
Military Families In Hawaii Spark Trial Over 2021 Jet Fuel Leak That Tainted Water
A trial for a mass environmental injury case begins in Hawaii on Monday, more than two years after a U.S. military facility poisoned thousands of people when it leaked jet fuel into drinking water.
NPR6 min read
8 Tracks: Beyond The Grave, Johnny Cash Still Shows Us How To Make Music
A new Johnny Cash song got NPR Music producer Lars Gotrich thinking about music released after a beloved artist dies. Check out "Well Alright," plus new music by Arooj Aftab and Tems on 8 Tracks.

Related