Need opinions on Beethoven Sonata I should play next

[pianist21]

Hello! I am in the process of deciding which Beethoven Sonata to begin working on for my solo recital that is at the end of next year and am looking for some opinions on which sonata to play next. Thus far, I have played Op. 2 No. 1, Op. 10 No. 3, and Op. 27 No. 1 (all complete). My favorite sonata is Op. 81a, but I am a little intimidated by the 3rd movement. Does anyone have any experience with this sonata and could possibly comment on the difficulty? I am also looking into Op. 2 No. 3, Op. 7, and Op. 90. Thanks in advance!

[beethovenfan01]

Coming from someone who has played the Op. 81a!!!

First of all, it's a LOT harder than it seems, especially the first movement. The third movement is tough, but the first movement is more difficult I think. You do have quite a list of sonatas there, but I would recommend playing one of his other mid- or late- sonatas first (for example, one of the Op. 31s (1-3), Op. 78, or Op. 90).

That's all I've got.

[pianist21]

Thanks for your input!

[sandro2002]

I think Op. 28 sonata is also quite intellectual and could go with those sonatas you mentioned. This sonata is also quite lyrical, the second movement is fantastic. Also, it's not very hard, but not very easy. Op. 31 No.1,2,3 are also great, but my favorite from them is Sonata #18. It's your choice. If you think you can handle Op. 81a, then you should play it, plus, I think you could do it, I mean you played Op. 10 No. 3 sonata, and that sonata is quite difficult. I agree with the above statement, I also think the first movement of Op. 81a is very difficult.

[mousekowski]

There are some similarities between the last movement of Op.81a and the last movement of the Emperor; same key, time signature and exuberant feel.

[blazekenny]

I have played the les adieux and I also have to agree it is very difficult. Especially the first movement, which is highly compressed, there are no resting places and you have to be able to swiftly change between various expressive tools. 
The op.2 no.3 seems much more reliable to me and is beautiful as well.