Expert: David Froom - 5/3/2006

Question
Hello!  I recently discovered this composer and would like your opinion on artists performing him. I believe I preferr a conserative, studied approach rather than an uninvolved rendition where the artist is showing off how fast they can play. I read that there are good pianists currently, would and of them fill the bill? Older recordings are also OK.
                     Thanks,  -Jim S.

Answer
My favorite pianists are the ones who use a studied approach to play with great passion.

For Chopin, my two favorites are:

Artur Rubinstein
Maurizio Pollini

They both start from the music, they both work from what the composer provided, they both stay within the composers stated wishes, they both are deeply involved with putting the music before their own personal egos.

They both are also famous for their Chopin playing.

You should have no problem finding many recordings of Chopin's music by both of them.

Happy listening,
David Froom