Beethoven -- Piano Sonatas, Vol 1: Nos. 1-8 (Alfred Masterwork Edition, Vol 1)

This is a really outstanding edition of the first 8 Beethoven piano sonatas. The editor has provided a ton of useful information - for example on how to execute individual ornaments. The only thing preventing me from giving it 5 stars is the binding. Why they didn't comb bind it is beyond me. I own an Alfred edition of Bach's 2 and 3 part inventions (a much slimmer edition than the Beethoven) which is nicely comb bound and sits flat against the piano stand. The Beethoven, on the other hand, must be held back with the aid of one of those metal "M"-shaped thingies, which runs the risk of being flung across the room like shrapnel from the potential energy being stored in the piano score.

The binding is very good. The print is large and clear (black print on white background). The commentary is also very useful, interesting, and helpful. Finger positions seem appropriate.

Diese Edition trägt alles zusammen, was die Beethoven-Experten der Geschichte zur Interpretation und Spielweise der Stücke zu sagen hatten. Sehr hilfreiche Fussnoten. Gute Fingersätze. Tolle Erläuterungen zu den Stücken. Der einzige Minuspunkt ist, dass die Noten erst nach Gewaltanwendung auf den Notenpult stehen bleiben ohne von alleine umzuklappen. Das macht Henle besser.