My Top 10 Recordings - no. 7: Sokolov/Prokofiev 7

Grigory Sokolov’s 1969 two CD set features a selection of the monuments of piano repertoire including Stravinsky’s Petruchka, Schumann’s Carnaval and Prokofiev’s 8th and 7the sonatas. 

The last movement of ‘Prok 7’ is unbelievable. A force of nature, unwavering in its approach, impeccably played with one of the longest dynamic arches I know of in our repertoire.

Sokolov is a one of a kind pianist, a monolith. Unfortunately for state side concert goers he does not fly, so Europe is the place to experience him live. 

Luckily there is lots of video footage to get to know this genius, but I particularly enjoy this high energy collection from Sokolov’s early days as concert artist.