This is the first volume of French pianist Tanguy de Williencourt's complete recording of Beethoven's piano sonatas. He opens with the Appassionata, Op. 57, which he sees as the ideal entry point to Beethoven's world: a work of revolutionary dramatic intensity that pushes the boundaries of classical form. It is followed by three consecutive opus numbers that show a more private side of the composer. The Fantasia in G minor, Op. 77, probably reflects one of Beethoven's famous improvisations, unpredictably inventing its own path before settling into a set of variations. The Sonata No. 24 in F-sharp major, Op. 78, dedicated to Therese Brunsvik, is one of his most intimate works, balancing tenderness and playfulness, while the 'Cuckoo' Sonata, Op. 79, has an almost folk-like freshness. Together they portray Beethoven as titan and poet, visionary and improviser.