Grigory Sokolov burst onto the scene in 1966 by winning the International Tchaikovsky Competition at the age of 16. Emerging from the intense musical training grounds of the Soviet Union, Sokolov subsequently built a reputation based on steely precision and depth.
Grigory Sokolov at 17 years of age (1967) © Wikipedia
He has always shunned the glare of the stage by keeping his concert appearances selective, and studio recordings aren’t his thing. His artistry is often described as intensely personal, and critics describe him as a pianist who speaks through the keyboard rather than simply playing notes.
Known for his subtle use of tone and phrasing, Sokolov’s performances are not only technically impeccable but also emotionally gripping. On the occasion of his birthday on 18 April, we decided to sample some of his most outstanding performances and recordings.
Grigory Sokolov Plays Tchaikovsky’s Piano Concerto No. 1 (Tchaikovsky Competition excerpt)
Chopin Preludes
Grigory Sokolov has recorded Chopin’s 24 Preludes on multiple occasions, with two notable releases showcasing his profound connection to the repertoire. His most acclaimed live performance dates back to 1990, originally released by the Opus 111 label and later reissued by Naïve.
The recording earned high praise from critics, with reviewers lauding his “personalised pianism and his ability to illuminate the harmonic and contrapuntal nuances of the music with a sense of creative freedom.” Preferring the spontaneity and energy of live performances, Sokolov’s interpretation is marked by a thoughtful, sometimes unconventional approach to tempo, phrasing, and dynamics. He frequently departs from traditional readings to emphasise depth and structural insight.
Frédéric Chopin: 24 Preludes, Op. 28 (Grigory Sokolov, piano)
Beethoven “Hammerklavier”
Grigory Sokolov
Beethoven’s “Hammerklavier,” one of the composer’s most formidable and technically demanding works, has been a significant part of Sokolov’s repertoire. His performances reflect his broader artistic philosophy, focusing on structural insight and poetic nuance over virtuosic bravado.
His deeply personal and intellectual approach to the “Hammerklavier” has evolved from a cautious and controlled execution in his 1975 version, to renditions in the 2010s and beyond that reveal a seasoned artist willing to take risks with tempo. Sokolov prioritises emotional resonance over conventional placing. The technical demands are met with Sokolov’s signature concentration, where “every note is coloured and weighted, each phrase meticulously judged.”
Grigory Sokolov Performs Beethoven’s Piano Sonata No. 29, Op. 106
Schubert Impromptus
Grigory Sokolov © Mary Slepkova / Deutsche Grammophon
Grigory Sokolov has made several significant recordings of Schubert’s piano music. As elsewhere, he pays meticulous attention to detail, tonal richness, and the ability to convey the emotional depth and lyrical intimacy of Schubert’s music. Sokolov produces a singing tone and subtle dynamic shading that critics have described as “irresistibly beautiful.”
Sokolov’s approach to Schubert is marked by a deep respect for the music’s vocal quality, drawing out its inner voices and harmonic richness. He allows the emotional undercurrents to unfold gradually, and avoids excessive sentimentality. Instead, Sokolov offers an almost architectural clarity that complements Schubert’s blend of lyricism and structure.
Grigory Sokolov Performs Schubert: Impromptu, Op. 90
Bach Partitas
Grigory Sokolov has a deep affinity for the music of Bach, and his performances of the Partitas are among the highlights of his discography and live repertoire. Known for his introspective and technically impeccable approach, Sokolov brings a unique perspective to these works.
Emphasising their polyphonic richness and dance-like character, Sokolov uses moderate tempi in his aim to allow each voice to emerge distinctly. This is particularly evident in the fugal sections as he tends to avoid a common staccato dryness. Instead, he uses the capabilities of the modern piano to create a warm legato sound while maintaining crisp articulation with minimal pedalling.
Grigory Sokolov Performs Bach: Partita No. 1 in B-flat Major, BWV 825
Rachmaninoff Piano Concerto No. 2
In a rare video recording of Rachmaninoff’s 2nd concerto from 1993, Sokolov was in the prime of his career and still occasionally performing with orchestras before his exclusive focus on solo recitals. Sokolov’s interpretation is described as a “powerful distillation of emotions—frustration, despair, nostalgia, and triumph—mirroring the concerto’s own narrative.”
It is a compelling testament to his artistry during a transitional phase of his career, blending technical prowess with profound emotional insight. It is a most remarkable Sokolov video, capturing his ability to connect with an audience in real time.
One of the most enigmatic and revered pianists of our time, Grigory Sokolov bridges disciplined virtuosity with an uncompromising dedication to the art of live performances. His performances reveal an evolving artist who balances intellectual rigour with visceral emotion. Sokolov is a giant of the keyboard, towering over the musical landscape with his unparalleled artistry and profound interpretive brilliance.
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