Celebrated pianist Richard Goode will perform Ludwig van Beethoven’s final three piano sonatas and selections from the composer’s Bagatelles, Op. 119, in Shannon Hall at Memorial Union on Oct. 23 at 7:30 p.m. as part of the Wisconsin Union Theater’s (WUT’s) 2025–2026 Classical Series.
Goode has earned international acclaim for his thoughtful interpretation of the classical repertoire. He was one of the first American-born pianists to record all 32 of Beethoven’s piano sonatas, a project that earned him a Grammy nomination and international recognition.
For his Madison performance, Goode will return to Beethoven’s late works, pieces revered for their technical demands and emotional depth. The program will include Piano Sonata No. 30 in E Major, Op. 109; Piano Sonata No. 31 in A-flat Major, Op. 110; Bagatelles, Op. 119, Nos. 6–11; and Piano Sonata No. 32 in C Minor, Op. 111.
“Richard Goode’s playing is exquisite, and we’re fortunate he is still touring at 81!” Wisconsin Union Theater Director Elizabeth Snodgrass said. “I’ll never forget standing in a long line at Tower Records in New York to buy the Richard Goode Beethoven box set. His playing of Beethoven is like Murray Perahia’s playing of Mozart and Glenn Gould’s playing of Bach – it reflects a deep commitment to the composer’s intentions while leaving room for his unique interpretation.”
Tickets are available for $8–$89 and can be purchased online, in person at the Memorial Union Box Office or by phone at (608) 265-2787. Patrons can save 20% by purchasing a Classical Series subscription or 15-20% discount through a build-your-own-subscription option.
This performance is presented by WUT and the Wisconsin Union Directorate Performing Arts Committee. Other Classical Series events include the Chamber Music Society of Lincoln Center on Dec. 5, “Emily–No Prisoner Be”: Joyce DiDonato and Time for Three on Feb. 12, 2026, soprano Erin Morley and tenor Lawrence Brownlee on March 5, 2026, the Doric String Quartet on March 22, 2026, and the Attacca Quartet with composer and singer Caroline Shaw on April 16, 2026.
Patrons can visit union.wisc.edu/theater for ticket information, subscription options, and details about the 2025–2026 season lineup.