Artur Schnabel

The Profile

Artur Schnabel (1882–1951) was an Austrian-born pianist and composer, celebrated for his pioneering complete recordings of Beethoven’s piano sonatas (1932–35) and his influential interpretations of Beethoven, Schubert, and Mozart.

First to record the complete Beethoven piano sonatas (1932–35); renowned interpreter of Beethoven and Schubert; also an active composer and teacher.

One review hails Schnabel’s complete Beethoven piano sonatas set (Documents/Intense Media) as essential listening. It praises his interpretive journey through all 32 sonatas and explains the sonata form’s architecture. Highlights include the Hammerklavier, the Pathétique, and especially Op. 111. Overall sentiment is very positive.