For many decades now I have settled down to listen to Beethoven's Hammerklavier sonata Op 106. Whether played by Gilels, Solomon or Schnabel, I have invariably found it a perplexing work that always leaves me on the outside looking in. And so it was this evening, even with Schnabel playing. A distinct relief to follow it with Sandrine Piau singing Handel operatic arias. No problem connecting with them.