Sonata No. 23 in F Minor, Op. 57 is considered by many, including Beethoven, to be one of his greatest sonatas. The nickname �"appassionata�" probably came from a four-hand version entitled
Sonata appassionata, published in Hamburg in 1838. The famous opening thematic statement played two octaves apart and repeated immediately a half step higher sets a mood of tension and conflict
in this majestic sonata. Dr. Stewart Gordon�'s editions of Beethoven's most popular piano sonatas provide the key to a stylistic performance. Thorough research of the earliest available sources
has enabled Dr. Gordon to produce the most accurate reflection of the composer�'s intent. Each sonata contains helpful fingering suggestions and performance recommendations.
