Favorite Pianists of Beethoven Sonatas

[rubinsteinmad]

WHO?

[preludetr]

Out of those choices, I picked Emil Gilels, Annie Fischer and Arthur Schnabel. I'm glad you included so many pianists on the list, since most people should be able to find their favorites. The only problem with this kind of poll is that it becomes more a contest of fame than of how much people actually enjoy their styles. I know I haven't heard all or most of the pianists on the list, and I suspect the same is true for most members here.

[preludetr]

You forgot Gould, or did you just know that nobody would vote for him? 

[ronde_des_sylphes]

Solomon!

[rubinsteinmad]

Out of those choices, I picked Emil Gilels, Annie Fischer and Arthur Schnabel. I'm glad you included so many pianists on the list, since most people should be able to find their favorites. The only problem with this kind of poll is that it becomes more a contest of fame than of how much people actually enjoy their styles. I know I haven't heard all or most of the pianists on the list, and I suspect the same is true for most members here.

Same for me

Unfortunately, I've never heard of Igor Levit before making this poll

[irrational]

My other is Murray Perahia.

Although Gilels really is my favourite by far for its warmth and occasional fireworks, Perahia's playing somehow really appeals to me.
His accuracy and sense of rhythm just really resonates with my own feelings of what the music should sound like.
I have always like his Op.27/2 for instance. Even without listening to him my own interpretation turned out to be close to his. (Or rather, what I want mine to be)

[zpianist]

Oof, this is difficult. My choices were the "classic" Austro-German players though: Schnabel, Brendel, Kempff. But I agree that Perahia is just an all-around great pianist. And I like Richter + Pollini for the late sonatas (op. 101 - op. 111).

[preludetr]

I'm not sure if I would call Perahia one of the greatest Beethoven interpreters, especially since he's only recorded a handful of them, but I do agree that he is very well rounded and can play just about anything very well.  I believe he performed the piano soundtrack for the movie Immortal Beloved.

By the way, I notice that Perahia's teacher, Myeczyslaw Horszowski, isn't on the list. Seems like he didn't record too much, but I really enjoy his playing.