The first 15 seconds of Beethoven's 4th Piano Concerto

[bachbrahmsschubert]

I came across this video on youtube:

I just had to ask all of you wonderful people which your favorite interpretation is. There are some notable recordings missing (Perahia, Zimmerman, Brendel), though I think 10 is a fair selection.

From this selection, Arrau delivers the best in my opinion. What are your opinions? Any pianists not listed that you prefer?

Best wishes,

[retrouvailles]

Zimerman (spelled correctly) gets my vote. It is just so brilliant sounding, all while sounding elegant, refined, and passionate when needed. I wouldn't even mention Perahia or Brendel in the same breath as Zimerman. Those two are incredibly dull pianists whose talent to fame ratio is a miniscule one.

[asiantraveller101]

POLLINI!! 
 He did a marvellous job on all five Beethoven concerti.
In addition, (sorry for the rambling!) despite what some people may think that his playing is "cold", he exude warmth and sensitivity in the concerti especially the slow movements. Listening to his slow movement of the 3rd concerto and 4th concerto will totally change your mind about him. 

[retrouvailles]

I would never say that Pollini is cold, but I would say that he extremely inconsistent. I have heard some recordings of him that are one either end of the spectrum. I guess that makes it a bit of an interesting adventure to listen to him.

[asiantraveller101]

I would never say that Pollini is cold, but I would say that he extremely inconsistent. I have heard some recordings of him that are one either end of the spectrum. I guess that makes it a bit of an interesting adventure to listen to him.

Agree! Not everything that he plays. I hated his Chopin nocturnes recording, even though it won a Grammy!