Classical Piano Performers
Emanuel Ax, Andre Previn, Wilhelm Kempff
Here are some suggestions for top quality classical piano performers and some of their noted recordings.
Are you looking for some good classical piano performances, but don't know where to start? Here is a brief history of the piano, followed by some suggestions for a few good performers to start your collection.
The piano really came into its own during the 1800s. Although Cristofori had invented the pianoforte by the early 1700s, the industrial revolution made production of the piano much easier by the 19th century and improvements in the piano mechanism increased the sonic capabilities of the instrument. For example, the invention of the pedal introduced resonant sustain to the artistic palette (and anyone familiar with Chopin understands the importance of the pedal in his compositions). A lengthy list of composers such as Schubert, Chopin, Schumann, and Beethoven greatly expanded the piano literature while others such as Listz became famous for their dazzling technical virtuosity on the instrument. Probably because Baroque and Classical models of the keyboard were incapable of long sustain, a preference for long lyrical lines marks many Romantic piano pieces.
During the 20th century, an interest returned in the percussive capacities of the piano. Bartok used the piano rhythmically. Others such as Cage or Cowell explored alternative ways of getting unusual sounds out of the instruments. For example, both composers experimented with hitting the strings or attaching objects to the strings.
Emanuel Ax: This pianist was born in Poland, raised in Canada, and now tours all over the world. Start with his latest Brahms CD (a collection of two Piano Concertos, Op. 15 and 83, Two Rhapsodies, Op. 79, and two sets of Three Intermezzos, Op. 117 and 119). He also has an album of Chopin works, performed on a period-style piano. Those wishing for more contemporary music can experience his Shostakovich album or listen to Century Rolls.
Andre Previn: Not only a gifted pianist, Previn has also composed for film and opera, including an operatic setting of Tennessee William's A Streetcar Named Desire. His piano performances include Mozart trios and collaborations with violinist Annie-Sophie Mutter. With an interest in jazz, Previn has also recorded several albums of music by Gershwin, Duke Ellington, and other jazz greats.
Wilhelm Kempff: Crisp and articulate, Kempff exudes a scholarly approach in his performance. If you want an introduction to Beethoven's entire set of sonatas, you should start with Kempff's recording. Also of note are his interpretations of the Schubert sonatas and Bach's Goldberg Variations.
