24 Preludes, Op. 28

Frédéric Chopin

Op. 28

Claudio Arrau /

1973

Gil's top choice (coupled with the Impromptus). Arrau brings 'flexibility, that romantic temperament,' plus a 'soothing bedrock of that beautiful legato tone.' It's beautiful, powerful, and delicate, with a 'probing mind' perfect for the 'variety of moods.'

Label : Phillips

Ivan Moravec /

A 'very impassioned performance, very committed,' from the 'most powerful moments to the most delicate.' A 'really ingenious conception artistically.' (Gil notes some light humming).

Jeanne-Marie Darré /

1965

A 'very powerful as well as poetically delicate' interpretation. Gil says 'everything is very felt' and you can tell the 'piece... really meant a lot to her.'

Martha Argerich /

1970s

An 'iconic version.' It features 'incredible virtuosity' and 'wonderful tone.' It's 'a little bit more on the assertive side' and 'doesn't linger as much' as Arrau.

Rafał Blechacz /

2007

A modern recording that 'really marries the strong, powerful virtuosity with a poetic sensibility.' Very nuanced in the lighter sections and with 'obviously very good sound.'

Garrick Ohlsson /

1974

A 'little bit more straightforward' and 'very clear,' allowing the dissonances to come across. Also shows an 'instinctive feel' for Chopin's rhythmic inflection. A 'really good version.'

Jorge Bolet /

1974 Live at Carnegie Hall

A 'really, really concentrated' live performance where Bolet is 'in the zone.' He 'really gives it his all' in terms of 'varying moods and passions,' with 'strong tone and delicacy and just wonderful artistry.'

Benno Moiseiwitsch /

1948

A 'really unmissable interpretation' from a 'consummate romantic pianist.' It has 'powerful tone, wonderful imagination, a sense of spontaneity,' and 'easy virtuosity.' The sound is 'dim' and 'clangy.'

Alfred Cortot /

1933

'Maybe the iconic set of the Preludes.' The sound is 'fairly good' for its age. Gil says the works were 'tailor-made for Cortot,' praising his 'imagination, his freedom, his flexibility, his creativity, his dramatic playing.' The 'Raindrop Prelude' is 'gorgeous.'