Many pianists break through after winning a major piano competition. Ivo Pogorelich became world-famous in 1980 after being eliminated before the final of the Chopin Competition in Warsaw. A scandal erupted: several jury members, including Martha Argerich, resigned in protest. The legendary Vladimir Horowitz declared after hearing Pogorelich play, “Now I can finally die in peace.” This was no conventional competition contestant, but a genius pianist with the aura of a slightly enigmatic film actor.

With his unorthodox interpretations, astonishing technique, and innovative approach to the repertoire, Pogorelich achieved an international breakthrough. His playing could be extremely slow at times, then suddenly fierce and unpredictable. He took risks where others chose security. Perhaps that is still what sets him apart: with Pogorelich, you never quite know what to expect, but you can be certain it will be a remarkable evening. Though his playing today is more introspective than provocative.

In 2019, he released his first studio recording in twenty years on Sony Classical. In 2023, a full album dedicated to Chopin followed, which reached high positions in the European classical charts. Consider that a recommendation.