Amazing Solo Piano Recordings

I've always greatly enjoyed "Nojima Plays Liszt" on Reference Recordings. In my opinion Minoru Nojima of Japan is one of the best pianists in the world.

On the first Stereophile test CD is my favorite solo piano recording. The performance is by Anna Maria Stanczyk of Frederick Chopin's Scherzo in b-flat Op. 31. The liner notes have some interesting information about the recording and performance. The CD can of course be purchased from Stereophile, or if you prefer from amusicdirect.com for $8.99 + shipping. I often use this track when auditioning equipment, especially speakers. On good systems the imaging is astonishing and the performance carries a lot of emotion.

Earwitness Transcriptions produced by Madrigal Audio.

Artur Schnabel Late Beethoven sonatas , EMI
Walter Gieseking Schumann Kinderscenen, and Davidsbundlertanze
Artur Schnabel Schubert Sonatas
Oscar Levant Gershwin Preludes
Radu Lupu Schubert Impromptus
Walter Gieseking Mendelssohn Songs Without Words

Get Stephen Hough's "English Piano Album" on Hyperion! Great playing recording and choice of selections. John K.