Jeffrey Swann works through five Beethoven sonatas, among them the thunderous Appassionata (Op. 57) and the farewell-themed Les Adieux (Op. 81a), plus Opp. 54, 78 and 79, talking the audience through each one. You hear it in a converted barge that rocks gently on the East River with the Brooklyn Bridge outside the window. If you want a classical afternoon that costs nothing and feels like a secret, this is it.
What to expect
Bargemusic is a small wood-panelled concert room built into a former coffee barge, with a piano at one end and a window framing the river and Lower Manhattan. Swann mixes spoken commentary with performance, so it plays like an illustrated lecture-recital rather than a formal concert.
Good to know
- Bargemusic says its concerts this season are admission-free, with no tickets or reservations.
- Seating is first come, first served, so arrive before the doors open.
- The barge moves slightly with the water, which some visitors notice.
- The York Street F and High Street A/C stations are a walk away; the NYC Ferry DUMBO landing is close by.
- Pair it with a walk through Brooklyn Bridge Park or a ride on Jane's Carousel next door.
Going? Keep it.
Common questions
Which sonatas are on the program?
The Appassionata (Op. 57), Les Adieux (Op. 81a), and the sonatas in F major Op. 54, F-sharp major Op. 78 and G major Op. 79.
Do I need a ticket for Bargemusic?
Bargemusic describes its concerts as admission-free with no tickets or reservations; seats are first come, first served.