James Brawn on recording complete Beethoven piano sonatas

British pianist and educator James Brawn has never been one to stay still. A concert pianist and recording artist with a truly international career, he relocated to China in 2016 and made Shanghai his home—a move he describes as “life-changing.”Now based in the city, Brawn balances teaching at a private music training institution with an active performing and recording schedule. His critically acclaimed complete recording of Beethoven’s piano sonatas, released by U.S.-based label MSR Classics, received glowing praise, including a rave review from The Times.Now in his fifties, Brawn firmly believes that his best playing is still ahead of him. Among his upcoming goals is to perform the entire Beethoven sonata cycle live in concert.This is an English-language programme without subtitles.Filmed and recorded in Shanghai on March 9, 2025. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit klassikom.substack.com