Reviews

“I can think of no higher praise of Maestro Willems musicianship than to say that I find his performance of these sonatas as deeply moving, as intelligent and insightful as any I’ve heard. And that includes some pretty exalted company: Sviatoslav Richter, Artur Schnabel, Ernst Levy.”

Russell Lichter, Stereo Times (USA)

“The playing is felicitous and well-judged, full of Beethoven’s passion, introspection and spirit ... there is no doubt this is a major Australian undertaking that adds another dimension”

Kim Lockwood, Melbourne Herald-Sun

“Willems’ bravery in undertaking this assignment proves to be justified by the care and quality of his interpretations ... I have no hesitation in recommending this box of discs...”

Roger Covell, Sydney Morning Herald

“Willems has great command of the music, not just its technical demands (formidable as they are) but of its spiritual dimension as well. (His) versions are technically triumphant, intensely musical and have provided me with extraordinary pleasure. By comparison ... Kempff is austere, didactic and monochrome.”

John Carmody, Sun-Herald

“All the performances reveal Willems as a sensitive and thoughtful interpreter of Beethoven.”

Tony Way, Melbourne Age

“Willems is spot-on ... succeeding impressively in conveying the awesome, massive quality of some of the most dramatic music ever written ... (he) coaxes from the instrument a stream of the most agreeably refulgent sound.”

Neville Cohn, The West Australian

“Willems has given Australia a musical gold medal”

High Court Judge, Justice Michael Kirby, Sydney Morning Herald

“Mr Willems is an artist who understands Beethoven’s music. He plays all works with power as well as gentleness and at all times faithfully.”

Karel Husa, Czech-American Composer/Conductor