Classical/Review Ludwig van Beethoven, Vladyslav Ustiuhov - Beethoven: Sonatas Ops. 53, 57, 111

Vladyslav Ustiuhov is a Ukrainian pianist residing in Miami, Florida. Holding both a bachelor's and master's degree in piano performance from the Boston Conservatory at Berklee, he is currently pursuing a Doctor of Musical Arts in Keyboard Performance at the Frost School of Music at the University of Miami. His studies have been shaped by distinguished teachers, including Professor Max Levinson and Professor Tian Ying.

“Beethoven: Sonatas Ops. 53, 57, 111” presents pianist Vladyslav Ustiuhov in a powerful and deeply personal album, interpreting three towering masterworks by Ludwig van Beethoven: the “Waldstein” (Op. 53), “Appassionata” (Op. 57), and Op. 111 sonatas. Recorded during his Master of Music and Doctor of Musical Arts studies, the album captures both technical command and an artist in the midst of profound self-definition.

Ustiuhov’s Ukrainian roots and rigorous training at the Boston Conservatory and Frost School of Music shape a performance style marked by intensity and structural clarity. In the “Waldstein,” he emphasizes vibrant momentum and luminous textures, navigating the Allegro con brio with crisp articulation and controlled brilliance. The sonata’s sweeping contrasts feel purposeful rather than showy, revealing a thoughtful architectural approach.

The “Appassionata” emerges with brooding depth and restrained power. Ustiuhov balances its stormy outer movements with a lyrical, inward-looking Andante con moto, allowing emotional tension to simmer before erupting again. There is a palpable sense of personal resonance in these passages, as if the music mirrors an inner narrative of struggle and determination.

Op. 111 stands as the album’s spiritual summit. The opening movement carries gravitas and dramatic weight, while the Arietta unfolds with patient, luminous calm. Here, Ustiuhov’s touch becomes almost translucent, shaping variations with sensitivity and long-arched phrasing.

Throughout the recording, precision never overshadows expression. Instead, the performances reflect resilience, discipline, and a genuine connection to Beethoven’s revolutionary spirit—making this album both technically impressive and emotionally compelling.