Five-star performance of Beethoven sonatas

STEP ONE — pick a concert by Steven Osborne of piano music by Beethoven (or any other composer). Step two — find a copy of the Concise Book of Superlatives. Step three — use them all.

There are no other ways to come to terms with a recital by this keyboard maestro.

Words like marvellous, superb and excellent don’t come near to the mark, and if you haven’t heard him perform before you would watch with mouth-open astonishment.

To those familiar with the man and his music, his recent performance at Perth Concert Hall merely underlined his peerless qualities.

Bu it wasn’t just an amalgamation of Osborne and Beethoven — with a touch of Schubert thrown into the bargain.

It was Steven’s reunion with an old friend, the hall’s Steinway piano, which he had selected when the concert hall opened. It’s a partnership made in heaven.

Osborne chose to enthral us with three Beethoven sonatas — the relatively short E minor, the A major Opus 101 and the gargantuan Hammerklavier.

Each was an exhibition of skill, precision, superb musicianship and interpretation and a touch and feel for the keyboard that was a delight.

The short Schubert work didn’t interrupt the flow, and dovetailed perfectly with the A major making it the perfect segue.

In this beautiful work, the third movement contrasted perfectly with its sparky, vibrant predecessor and was a thing of sublime, reflective beauty that paved the way for a finale that made the second half of the programme a mouthwatering prospect. And what a second half it was!

Few players choose the Hammerklavier unless they have embarked on a cycle of the Beethoven sonatas, in which case there is no escape.

It’s something of a strength-sapping marathon that needs a player of considerable ability, stamina and strength. All three Osborne possesses in equal measure.

A five-star performance? Double that, and you’re nearer the mark.

Angus Findlay. Steven Osborne at Perth Concert Hall.