Piano Concerto No. 2 in F minor

Frédéric Chopin

F minor

Recordings

Top Choice

Krystian Zimerman / Carlo Maria Giulini / Los Angeles Philharmonic

Late 70s

Gil's first recommendation (part of the set). Giulini brings 'noble grandeur' and Zimerman adds 'beautiful poetic artistry.' A beautiful, exquisite version.

Also Worth Hearing

Arthur Rubinstein / Sir John Barbirolli / London Symphony

1930s Historic recording

Part of a set (Nos. 1 & 2). 'Prime interpretations' despite the sound. These earlier recordings show Rubinstein at his 'freshest,' playing with 'immaculate' dignity, nobility, and grace.

Josef Hofmann / Sir John Barbirolli / New York Philharmonic

1930s Live recording

Part of a set (Nos. 1 & 2). A live, rough-sounding recording. Hofmann (a 'Heifetz for the piano') plays with fantastic virtuosity, artistry, and a 'thinking mind'.

Alfred Cortot / Sir John Barbirolli / London Philharmonic

1935 Historic recording

Distant sound, but Cortot was a 'genius at Chopin.' He plays with wonderful imagination, 'as if composing on the spot'.