Decca SXL 2241 UK ED1 WBg Backhaus Beethoven Waldstein Appassionata

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UK original DECCA SXL WBg ED1. Wilhelm Backhaus performs Beethoven's Sonata Waldstein & Appassionata.
Record is in VG+! Really great with a few light lines. Cover is VG, Really nice with some smudging and a 2" tear on bottom front (see images).

Wilhelm Backhaus – Beethoven: "Waldstein" & "Appassionata" Sonatas – Decca SXL 2241 (UK First Edition, Wideband Grooved Label)

This esteemed recording features pianist Wilhelm Backhaus performing two of Ludwig van Beethoven's most celebrated piano sonatas:

• Sonata No. 21 in C Major, Op. 53 "Waldstein"
• Sonata No. 23 in F Minor, Op. 57 "Appassionata"

Released in 1960 under the Decca SXL 2241 catalog number, this album is particularly notable in its UK first edition pressing, identifiable by the wideband grooved (WBg) label. This specific edition is highly sought after by collectors and audiophiles for its superior sound quality and historical significance.

About the Recording

• Pianist: Wilhelm Backhaus (1884–1969) was a renowned German pianist celebrated for his interpretations of Beethoven's works. His performances are characterized by technical precision and profound musical insight.

• Label: Decca Records is known for its high-quality classical recordings. The SXL series, especially the early wideband grooved pressings, are prized for their exceptional audio fidelity.

Album Details

• Label: Decca Records
• Catalog Number: SXL 2241
• Format: Vinyl LP, Stereo
• Country: United Kingdom
• Release Year: 1960
• Edition: First Edition, Wideband Grooved (WBg) Label

Content Overview

This album features two of Beethoven's most dynamic and emotionally charged piano sonatas:

1. Sonata No. 21 in C Major, Op. 53 "Waldstein"

   • I. Allegro con brio
   • II. Introduzione (Adagio molto)
   • III. Rondo (Allegretto moderato – Prestissimo)

2. Sonata No. 23 in F Minor, Op. 57 "Appassionata"

   • I. Allegro assai
   • II. Andante con moto
   • III. Allegro ma non troppo – Presto

Backhaus's interpretations are noted for their clarity, structural understanding, and expressive depth, making this recording a benchmark for these sonatas.

Collectibility and Sound Quality

The UK first edition of Decca SXL 2241 with the wideband grooved label is highly coveted among collectors for several reasons:

• Sound Quality: The wideband grooved pressings from Decca's early stereo era are renowned for their rich, warm sound and excellent dynamic range.

• Historical Significance: As a first edition, this pressing represents the initial release of Backhaus's acclaimed interpretations of these sonatas.

• Condition: Copies in Near Mint (NM) condition are particularly valuable, as they preserve the audio fidelity and aesthetic quality of the original release.

For instance, a listing on eBay highlights a rare UK first press stereo LP of this album, emphasizing its collectibility and the pristine condition of both the vinyl and sleeve.

eBay Tyskland

Conclusion

The Decca SXL 2241 UK first edition wideband grooved pressing of Wilhelm Backhaus's performances of Beethoven's "Waldstein" and "Appassionata" sonatas is a treasured recording for both its artistic excellence and audiophile sound quality. Collectors and enthusiasts value this edition for its historical importance and the superior listening experience it offers.

Record Grading I use the following grades: M/M- Only for still sealed or certain unplayed records NM    Should look very close to unplayed EX+   With very few signs of use EX     Some light signs of use but nothing that should affect the    listening experience VG+   A really nice LP with some signs of use and the can be the odd light click, but nothing major at all VG    There are clear signs of use and there can be some recurring clicks and crackles, but not continously.  G       There are many marks and lines and you should expect that the listening experience will be hampered. But still playable. + and - are used for nuances. P/F    Very rarely used. Only very rare records will be listed in this condition
Shipping If you win more than one of my auctions, I will of course pack it together and you will get the actual shipping cost from Sweden to the world.
Worldwide shipping rates (note that boxes counts as the number of records in the box): 1-2 LPs €18 3-5 Lps €25 6-8 Lps €30 7+ Lps €40
I have many listings, most from one collection in great condition. Most are in top condition. Decca SXL and LXT, Columbia SAX and 33CX, HMV His Master's Voice ASD and ALP, Deutsche Grammophon DGG, Philips Hi-Fi Hifi, Westminster, Proprius, MFSL Mobile Fidelity, and many more.