Grigory Sokolov - Warsaw - 2 December 2018
As
the Russian pianist Grigory Sokolov walks onto Warsaw Philharmonic stage, the
suffused lighting of the chandeliers softens his approach and creates space for
reflection. I recalled the first time I heard this artist in Warsaw in 1992. I have
never forgotten it. The experience has remained with me undimmed ever since. In
my literary travel book on Poland much was cut editorially. My account of this
particularly memorable Warsaw night elicited this comment from my editor: 'Not
famous enough Michael. No-one will know who he is!' Rather a different view now
in December 2018 as Grigory Sokolov is widely considered to be the greatest
living pianist, a living legend.
I wonder what it is that creates the undoubted magnetism of this modest figure considering his apparently diffident attitude to the audience as he bows and seats himself unceremoniously at the instrument. His supreme mastery of the piano is never in doubt, his profound musicianship acknowledged by all, professional an…
I wonder what it is that creates the undoubted magnetism of this modest figure considering his apparently diffident attitude to the audience as he bows and seats himself unceremoniously at the instrument. His supreme mastery of the piano is never in doubt, his profound musicianship acknowledged by all, professional an…
