Technique AND artistry
04/21/2002
(5 out of 5 stars)
"Usually I go with Rubenstein for Chopin, but since that recording was made in the '40s, I opted to take a chance for the sake of better recording quality. Apparently, Sokolov is an eccentric, a la Gould, so I knew I'd either love it or hate it. First, his technique-- on the faster preludes: virtuosic and amazing. But more importantly, his artistry in interpreting-- the B minor prelude is a good example. It was unrushed with dynamic shadings that this piece deserves. Not all the Preludes are equally worthwhile, but they're all good, and some are great. I recommend this recording highly, especially if you want effective interpretations of the three or four more familiar ones."