For some of the really seasoned pianists:The tempo of the Arietta at the beginning of the movement is really problematic when progressing through the movement as the l’istesso tempo markings are to be performed true to the indications Beethoven requests in his score. My question is (and I already know the answer, I just want opinions): is it worth taking a much slower tempo at the beginning to make the progressive build to the third variation true to Beethoven’s indication to keep the same tempo through to the “dream sequence?” If faster at the start, the third variation is almost impossible, but manageable if the beginning drags a bit. How would you handle this situation from an interpretive and “purist” point of view? Thanks in advance!
I think that in Op 111, as in many pieces Beethoven was purposefully extreme in his tempos. He wanted the slow to be very slow and the fast very fast, and the cumulative effect of the increasing diminutions with a steady pulse is important. So I'd say, don't worry about the theme being too slow - it can work even at a very slow tempo. If you yourself are not feeling frustrated or impatient with the slow tempo, there's a good chance you'll convince the audience to listen more meditatively. It's certainly a challenge to shape a long line at a very slow tempo, but I've heard people do it, and maintain concentration right through it.
Topic: Beethoven Op. 111 Arietta 