24 Preludes (Op. 3 No. 2, Op. 23, Op. 32)

Sergei Rachmaninoff

Vladimir Ashkenazy

Complete 24 Preludes mid-1970s

Gil's recommendation for the complete set of 24 preludes. 'Wonderfully romantic, lush interpretations, virtuosic, wonderful color, wonderful tone. He just has a wonderful feel for these works.' 'Beautifully recorded.'

Apple Music

Byron Janis

Preludes, Op. 3 No. 2 and Op. 23 No. 6

Gil highlights this disc (his top concerto pick) for its inclusion of the famous Prelude in C-sharp minor (Op. 3, No. 2) and Op. 23 No. 6. Janis gives a 'very dramatic version' of Op. 3 No. 2.

Apple Music — Preludes Op. 23 No. 6 and Op. 3 No. 2 on an album with Piano Concerto No. 2.

Sergei Rachmaninoff

Preludes — selections, including Op. 3 No. 2

The composer's own acoustic recordings (selections). Beyond the 'amazing' pianistic ability, Gil notes the 'authority of the composer' and a 'sort of nobility' he brings, playing Op. 3 No. 2 in a 'more... reserved' way than most.

Label: RCA

Josef Hofmann

Prelude, Op. 23 No. 5 Live, Golden Jubilee Concert

An 'incredible version' of just one prelude, Op. 23 No. 5. From a 'volcanic' live recital, Hofmann's 'incredible technical skill is just off the charts.'