Beethoven Marathon: 4 Hours of the Classical Master's Best at the Athenaeum

Violinist Victoria Martino and pianist James Lent will play the complete sonatas for violin and piano by Ludwig van Beethoven at 7 p.m., Monday. The concert is a memorial marathon on the 185th anniversary of the composer's death. The performance is estimated to run three and a half to four hours.

In the past, Martino and Lent performed marathons of Mozart, Bach, Schumann and other composers. And March 26, the duo will play all of Beethoven's 10 sonatas without intermission.

Katie Walders, marketing and public relations manager for the Athenaeum said this is the Martino and Lent's most exciting and ambitious project to date.

“A master of contracts and surprises, Beethoven never allows the listener or the performer to take anything for granted; tempestuous outbursts and tender murmurings alternate with moments of humor, playfulness and brilliant wit,” Walders said in an email to Patch. “This concert provides a unique opportunity for Beethoven lovers to immerse themselves completely in the great composer's genius.”

Walders added that in the past marathons, audience members have brought snacks and even their knitting to work on during the performance, while others simply sit back and enjoy the music.

Tickets are $30 for members and $35 for nonmembers. 

Tickets can be purchased in person at the Athenaeum or online at ljathenaeum.org/lectures.

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