Immersion in Chopin

Posted by: mikeeschman on 28 February 2010

This weekend I am enjoying a complete focus on Chopin, with Blechacz doing the Preludes, Pollini doing the Etudes and Zimerman doing the Balladen.

All of the recordings are exceptionally clear and nuanced, and the performances are absolutely stupendous.

I would be interested in any other Chopin recommendations, especially by young pianist.

Posted on: 12 March 2010 by Oldnslow

Speaking of Chopin, I am contemplating acquiring Krystian Zimerman's controversial DG recording of the two concertos with his Polish orchestra. Anybody have thoughts on these performances?

Posted on: 12 March 2010 by Dan Carney

Oldnslow,

They are sublime! My favourites, by far!

Not impartial, or text-book, but works of art.

Posted on: 12 March 2010 by Oldnslow

Thanks Dan, I'll pick it up. I love these concertos, and of course have other recordings--- Pollini, Zacharias, Blechasz(the Polish competition recording) but thought the Zimerman sounded very interesting. I would have loved to hear him live with his Orchestra when they toured them a few years back.

Posted on: 13 March 2010 by Dan Carney

I'm a fan of the Blechacz, but the Zimerman takes a different perspective - totally different from his earlier recordings with Guilini.

I think you'll find the Zimerman quite enlightening!