Exquisite Chopin

An exquisitely recorded disc of Chopin's late works by pianist Maria João Pires accompanied by Pavel Gomziakov on cello.

Composer: Chopin
Repertoire: Piano Sonata No.3; Polonaise-Fantaisie; Sonata for Cello and Piano, et al.
Artists: Maria João Pires (piano), Pavel Gomziakov (cello)
Rating: 5/5
Genre: Instrumental
Label: DG 477 7483

Should anyone ask you what is meant by ‘a beautiful tone’ and how a percussion instrument is able to sing, refer them to these two exquisitely recorded discs. The programme features all the important works Chopin wrote in the last four years of his life except the Barcarolle and Berceuse (a pity – there was plenty of room for them). Pires may emphasise the lyrical, intimate Chopin at the expense of the dramatist but her limpid touch and thoughtful phrasing are quite beguiling. Gomziakov joins her in an exceptionally fine and touching account of the Cello Sonata.