"There is such richness in the Beethoven variations that it seems pointless and unfair to highlight any one in particular. The D major set uses the Ruins of Athens theme. It is pretty uproarious, with Richter conveying a terrific sense of fun. The Eroica Variations has its light moments as well...the fugue finale, very much faster than normal, is so extraordinarily exhilarating that it ends the work in triumph, with Richter playing most pianists under the table." -Gramophone